Tensions erupted in Assam’s Goalpara district on July 18 during an eviction drive in the Paikan forest area, leading to a violent confrontation between alleged encroachers and security forces. The clash resulted in the death of two individuals and injuries to several police and forest department officials. As of Friday, nine people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the attack on police personnel. According to official sources, the eviction operation was being jointly conducted by the Assam Police and the Forest Department to clear illegal settlements from reserved forest land in the Paikan region. The drive was part of the state government’s broader campaign to reclaim forest areas under encroachment and restore ecological balance.However, the situation turned volatile when a group of people reportedly tried to obstruct the authorities. “The crowd was initially gathered to protest, but suddenly some individuals started throwing stones at the eviction team. The situation escalated quickly,” said a senior police officer involved in the operation.
Faced with aggression and rising danger, police forces were compelled to resort to controlled firing to disperse the crowd. In the process, two individuals—identified as encroachers by authorities—were killed. Several members of the police and forest personnel sustained injuries due to stone pelting.The violence sent shockwaves across the state, prompting a swift and stern response from the Assam government. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, known for his uncompromising stand on law and order, issued a firm statement on Thursday evening. “Attacking on-duty police and government officials is a serious offence. We will not tolerate such acts. Strict action will be taken against all those involved,” Sarma said.
Following the Chief Minister’s statement, security forces were directed to collect video footage and photographic evidence from the site of the incident. With support from drone visuals and mobile recordings, investigators were able to identify individuals seen participating in the assault.“Based on the video analysis, we prepared a list of suspects involved in violence and obstruction of duty,” said an official from the Goalpara district administration. “So far, nine individuals have been arrested. More arrests are likely in the coming days as our investigation continues.”