Bihu pandal set on fire in Assam's Dhubri, outrage mounts over security lapse

A suspected arson attack at a Rongali Bihu pandal in Balajan, Dhubri district, has sparked widespread anger, with local organisations pressing for swift arrests.

 

The structure, set up by the Brihattar Balajan Rongali Bihu Celebration Committee, was allegedly targeted late at night. Unidentified persons are believed to have entered the venue when it was unattended, removed sections of stage drapery and then set the pandal on fire.

 

Organisers and residents who reached the site on Tuesday morning found the venue extensively damaged. The incident has disrupted final preparations ahead of the Rongali Bihu celebrations scheduled for April 21 and 22.

 

Questions have been raised over security arrangements, as the site lies about 100 metres from the Balajan police outpost. Locals have expressed concern over the apparent lack of night-time vigilance in the area.

 

Police arrived at the spot after being informed and have launched an investigation. No arrests had been made at the time of filing this report.

 

The Bihu committee, along with regional organisation Akrashu, has condemned the incident and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to authorities to identify and apprehend those responsible. They described the act as an attack on Assamese cultural sentiment and called for strict action.

 

Despite the damage, organisers have begun rebuilding the pandal and said the celebrations will go ahead as planned. Tension persists in the area, with demands for a prompt and impartial probe growing louder.