Assam: Student, mother detained in connection with alleged beef incident at Goalpara's Krishnai School

A controversy at Habraghat Higher Secondary School in Krishnai, Goalpara district, Assam has led to police action, protests, and administrative intervention following allegations that a group of students brought beef to the school premises and attempted to persuade classmates to consume it.

According to complaints filed with the police, the incident occurred on June 5 during the lunch break at the government-run school. Two Class IX Hindu students alleged that while they were having their tiffin inside a classroom, five Muslim classmates, who were reportedly consuming beef brought from home, urged them to eat the meat as well.

The two students objected to the act and subsequently informed an assistant teacher. According to the allegations, the teacher reprimanded the students involved but advised the complainants not to discuss the matter publicly. The affected students further alleged that despite informing the principal and other teachers, no substantial action was taken immediately.

Later that evening, the two students informed their families about the incident. The matter subsequently sparked concern among local residents, following which the families lodged a formal complaint with Krishnai Police Station.

On the following day, family members of the affected students and representatives of several local organisations staged protests on the school premises, demanding action against those responsible and accountability from the school administration.

Amid the growing tension, Goalpara District Commissioner Pradeep Timung and Superintendent of Police Navaneet Mahanta visited the school and held discussions with concerned stakeholders. The officials assured residents that the matter would be investigated thoroughly and that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.

The District Commissioner described the incident as unfortunate and appealed to parents to exercise caution regarding the food items children bring to school. He also suggested avoiding fish and meat items in school tiffins to prevent similar disputes.

Acting on the complaint, Krishnai Police brought the five students and their guardians to the police station for questioning. According to police sources, the student alleged to have brought the beef to school and his mother, identified as Nur Sahida Begum, were subsequently arrested and later sent to judicial custody. The remaining students were questioned as part of the investigation.

The incident has generated widespread reactions across Goalpara district. Representatives of local organisations, members of the School Management Committee, student bodies, social activists, and political leaders have condemned the alleged incident and called for strict action in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, local organisations and residents have reportedly convened a public meeting at Habraghat Higher Secondary School to discuss the matter and deliberate on measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The allegations remain subject to investigation, and authorities have not yet released the final findings of the case.