Public anger grows over alleged illegal betting racket in Assam's Dhubri; police face inaction charge

Public outrage is mounting in Assam's Dhubri district over the alleged unchecked spread of an illegal betting racket, with residents accusing the police of failing to crack down on those behind the network despite evidence of its widespread operations.
 

The allegations come amid claims that some police personnel recently posed as coolies (porters) in an apparent attempt to monitor the betting activities. The move has drawn criticism from local residents, who questioned why the police were not taking direct action against the alleged masterminds of the racket.
 

According to local sources, the illegal betting network, locally known as Teer—an archery-based betting system—has expanded across several parts of the district, including Dhubri town and nearby rural and semi-urban areas. Anand Bazaar, under the Chalakura village panchayat in Majerchar, is among the locations where the betting operations are reportedly being conducted openly.
 

Residents alleged that betting tickets continue to be sold publicly despite repeated complaints. Local journalists and community members also claimed to have captured video footage showing tickets being sold and betting transactions taking place in the open, raising questions over the effectiveness of law enforcement.
 

The alleged racket has triggered concerns over its socio-economic impact, particularly on young people and daily-wage earners. Community members said the lure of quick monetary gains has left many families struggling with financial hardship.
 

"Teer gambling has brought absolute darkness into the lives of our young generation and the poorest people of our society. They lose their hard-earned money daily, driving families into debt and ruin," said Shimul Satkar, a local resident.
 

Civil society members and residents have urged the State Home Department and senior police officials to intervene and dismantle the alleged betting syndicates operating across the district. They said decisive action is needed to curb the illegal trade, protect vulnerable sections of society and restore public confidence in law enforcement.