School principal among 16 held in Assam's Dhubri gambling raid; quick releases spark outrage

A late-night police raid on a clubhouse in Assam’s Dhubri has triggered a strong public reaction after an in-charge school principal was found among those detained during an alleged gambling operation.

 

Police conducted a targeted raid at Mitali Club on NS Road on March 8 after receiving a specific tip-off about gambling activities at the premises. According to Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Anupjyoti Borah, officers apprehended 16 individuals who were allegedly caught gambling during the operation.

 

Among those detained was Amir Hussain, identified as the in-charge principal of a heritage school in Dhubri town. The development has raised concerns among residents about the influence of gambling on local institutions.

 

The legal process that followed the raid has also drawn attention. Of the 16 individuals detained, nine were released on personal recognisance bonds, while the remaining detainees were released by police earlier on March 9.

 

The quick release of those detained has led to fresh debate among residents over the persistence of illegal gambling activities in the town.

 

Local groups and activists say such operations highlight a broader problem involving clubhouses allegedly being used as gambling hubs.

 

Social activist Shimul Sarkar said residents are increasingly worried about the impact of such activities on the town’s environment. Gambling, he said, is “disturbing the peace and moral character of the neighbourhood,” adding that “our youth are threatened by this culture.”

 

Public anger has also been reflected in calls for stricter enforcement by the district administration. Several residents have urged authorities to adopt a “zero-tolerance” approach to gambling operations running under the guise of social clubs.