Call for Investigation into Arson Incident in Karbi Anglong

Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition in Assam, has called for an investigation into the arson of Tuliram Ronghang's residence, citing concerns over potential evidence destruction. The incident occurred during protests regarding land rights, leading to clashes with police. Saikia's letter to Prime Minister Modi emphasizes the need for accountability and the preservation of evidence, highlighting serious allegations of corruption against Ronghang. He urges immediate action to restore public trust in governance and judicial processes in Karbi Anglong.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 25, 2025, 11:56 IST

Demand for Inquiry into Arson

Guwahati, Dec 25: Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition in Assam's Legislative Assembly, has urged for an investigation into the recent arson attack on the residence of Tuliram Ronghang, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). He has raised concerns regarding what he describes as a potential 'destruction of evidence'.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Saikia expressed the urgency of the situation. He stated, “I wish to bring to your attention serious allegations against Tuliram Ronghang, the CEM of the KAAC. These claims require your prompt action to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability in Karbi Anglong.”

On December 22, 2025, during intense protests over the safeguarding of PGR/VGR land in Karbi Anglong, tensions escalated, culminating in the burning of Ronghang’s home in Dongkamokam, West Karbi Anglong. This incident led to clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators, resulting in a curfew and a significant police presence.

Saikia noted that Ronghang had attempted to arrange a meeting with the Karbi Students’ Union (KSU) and other hunger strikers on the same day. He mentioned that on the evening prior, Ronghang hosted a dinner where he allegedly instructed police to forcibly disperse the protesters. Following this, around 3 am, the protesters were taken to Gauhati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH) for health assessments, despite the proximity of Diphu Medical College & Hospital. This action reportedly heightened local tensions, leading to violent protests.

After the arson, Ronghang reportedly ordered the demolition of his house using a bulldozer. Saikia emphasized that this residence was crucial for the investigation into various offenses, including negligent conduct and rioting, as outlined in the BNS. The demolition occurred without a forensic examination or judicial order, raising serious concerns about the potential destruction of evidence.

Saikia alleged that this act suggests an attempt to conceal documents related to corruption, given the significant local allegations against Ronghang. He criticized the demolition as a violation of the CrPC, which mandates the preservation of evidence and forensic collection. The lack of police action regarding the debris further fuels speculation about hidden corruption-related materials.

He has called for an immediate inquiry by a judicial or district magistrate to investigate the arson and the destruction of evidence, as well as to clarify the administration's involvement.

Saikia highlighted that the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants special rights to tribal communities to safeguard their culture, identity, and land rights. He urged the Central government to take a decisive role in investigating the corruption allegations linked to funds allocated under this schedule. He concluded that Ronghang's actions have undermined public trust in governance in Karbi Anglong and that prompt intervention is necessary to restore faith in India's judicial system.

Staff Reporter