The law and order situation in Kheroni area of West Karbi Anglong has largely returned to normal following days of unrest that claimed two lives, officials said on Tuesday. Heavy security deployment by police and paramilitary forces has helped bring the situation under control, with authorities maintaining strict vigilance to prevent any fresh incidents. Officials said the situation stabilised on the third day after violence broke out in and around Kheroni, forcing the administration to rush in additional forces. Sensitive locations across the area are now under close watch, and security personnel have been conducting regular patrols to maintain peace.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed that additional security forces were deployed to restore normalcy. He said the government is closely monitoring the ground situation and is in constant touch with local authorities and community representatives. The Chief Minister stressed that the government’s approach is to resolve the matter through dialogue and coordination, while ensuring that law and order is strictly maintained. According to officials, the violence began when a group of protesters gathered near the Phelangpi area and moved towards Dongkamokam, eventually reaching Kapili Ghat. A counter group was present on the opposite bank of the river, which led to heightened tension in the region.
The situation reportedly turned violent after some protesters allegedly attacked police personnel with stones and sticks. Several police officers, including senior officials, were injured during the clashes. As the situation escalated, police initially resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. When the violence continued, security forces opened fire to regain control of the area. Two deaths were reported during the unrest. One person, identified as Singthi Timung, succumbed to injuries sustained during the clashes. Another individual, Surjya Dey, lost his life following an arson attack on a commercial establishment amid the violence, officials said.