Assam: Clashes erupt over Jhum cultivation in Cachar’s Bhuban Hills on Independence Day, suspects detained

Tension gripped the reserved forest area of Bhuban Hills under East Dholai in Assam’s Cachar district on Independence Day after a long-standing dispute over jhum cultivation escalated into violent clashes between local Muslim settlers and Khasi villagers.

According to reports, Muslim cultivators have been practicing shifting cultivation in the Kalakhal area of the reserved forest for several years, a practice strongly opposed by Khasi residents, the indigenous community of the region. Villagers have long alleged that such activities are leading to large-scale destruction of forest land and had earlier lodged complaints with both the district administration and the forest department. However, no concrete steps were taken, allowing the cultivation to continue.

The conflict reached a boiling point on Friday when Muslim cultivators attempted to resume jhum activities despite protests from Khasi villagers. In an attempt to prevent them from entering the forest, Khasi villagers confronted the cultivators, leading to a violent clash. During the altercation, two Khasi youths sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for treatment.

Police forces quickly intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order. Two Muslim youths allegedly involved in the violence have been detained, while search operations are underway to trace others linked to the incident.

In view of the volatile situation, paramilitary personnel have been deployed in and around Bhuban Hills to prevent any further escalation. While authorities have brought the situation under control, a tense atmosphere continues to prevail in the area.

District officials confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the incident and assured that strict measures will be taken to safeguard peace and law and order in the region.