RAF deployed in Kheroni as violence subsides after two days of unrest over grazing land eviction demands

The Rapid Action Force (RAF), a specialised riot control unit, has been deployed in the violence-hit Kheroni area of Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district, as the situation showed signs of stabilisation following two days of intense unrest triggered by land-related protests.

Deputy Commandant of the RAF, T. N. Singh, said on Wednesday afternoon that more than 200 RAF personnel have been deployed at strategic locations across Kheroni and adjoining areas to maintain law and order. He stated that the situation was currently under control and that the force would remain on standby to prevent any further escalation.

The violence erupted amid protests by sections of Karbi tribal groups demanding the eviction of alleged encroachers from the Professional Grazing Reserve and Village Grazing Reserve lands. During the agitation, protesters allegedly set fire to several shops, houses and other establishments in Kheroni and nearby localities. The ancestral residence of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang at Dongkamukam was also reportedly targeted.

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In response to the deteriorating situation, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders and suspended mobile internet services across Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts. Additional contingents of police and central forces were rushed to the affected areas to restore normalcy. Official sources confirmed that at least two persons were killed and several others injured during the clashes over the past two days, although no fresh incidents have been reported since the enhanced security deployment.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is closely monitoring the situation and has reiterated that land-related disputes must be resolved through dialogue and democratic processes. The state government has announced that tripartite talks involving the government, the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and representatives of the protesters will be held on December 26 to address the underlying issues and ensure lasting peace in the region.