Unrest Escalates in Kheroni Amid Protests and Violence

Protests in Kheroni have escalated into violence, leading to chaos in the local market. Eyewitnesses report widespread vandalism and looting as police attempt to restore order. The unrest follows a hunger strike by local residents, with tensions rising after misinformation about arrests triggered the violence. As the situation remains volatile, authorities are on high alert, and further developments are awaited.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 16:22 IST

Violence Erupts in Kheroni

Guwahati, Dec 23: The situation in Kheroni, located near the western banks of the Kopili River, deteriorated on Tuesday as protests turned violent, disrupting the local market.

Protesters wreaked havoc in the marketplace, vandalizing shops, shattering windows, and looting merchandise, leaving a trail of destruction.

Witnesses reported that the crowd grew larger after Education Minister Ranoj Pegu departed, following his assurance that a tripartite meeting would be arranged with local representatives and members of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC).

As tensions rose, law enforcement resorted to using batons and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Local residents noted that fires erupted in multiple areas, with protesters igniting tires to express their frustration and obstruct roadways.

Thick smoke enveloped the vicinity as frightened locals fled, while shopkeepers hastily closed their stores, transforming the usually vibrant market into a scene of chaos.

Director General of Police Harmeet Singh was on-site, assessing the situation and patrolling the streets in an effort to restore calm.

He was seen directly addressing protesters, urging them to stop throwing stones and escalating the violence.

“I have been communicating with all of you since last night. Now that things are under control, why are you causing this disturbance?” he was heard asking a group.

Referring to previous incidents, the DGP mentioned that three motorcycles, including one belonging to a police officer, had been set on fire since the day before, warning that those responsible would face legal consequences.

While there has been no official statement from the authorities, unverified reports indicate that several individuals, including security personnel, may have sustained injuries.

Prohibitory orders under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) remain in effect, yet fresh reports suggest that hundreds of individuals are still on the streets, ignoring the restrictions.

Earlier, Pegu stated that Karbi residents had been on a hunger strike since December 6, and when some protesters fell ill and were taken for medical care, misinformation regarding their arrest sparked the violence.

On Monday, four individuals were injured due to police firing after protesters rampaged in Kheroni, setting fire to the old residence of KAAC chief Ronghang in Donkamokam, damaging around 15 shops, and attempting to assault a police station.

The situation in Kheroni remains tense, with further updates anticipated.