Violent Clashes Erupt in Dibrugarh Over Cattle Theft Dispute
Escalation of Tensions in Dibrugarh
Vandalised vehicles from accused Mintu Ali's residence (Photo: AT)
Dibrugarh, April 11: A longstanding conflict, reportedly tied to a cattle theft ring in the Chaulkhowa region of Dibrugarh district, escalated into violent confrontations on Saturday. The clashes involved gunfire, petrol bomb attacks, and extensive vandalism, resulting in one individual suffering critical injuries.
The injured party, identified as Abid Ahmed, was transported to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) with a gunshot wound to his eye and is currently receiving treatment in the ICU.
“A patient was admitted with a gunshot injury to one eye. His condition is critical,” stated a hospital representative.
Local sources indicate that tensions had been brewing between two factions for several days before the situation turned violent. Family members of the injured individual accused Mintu Ali of orchestrating the attack.
“My mother was at the market, and my brother was shot by Mintu while he was going to pick her up. We have no personal issues with him; he has conflicts with others,” remarked Abid Ahmed’s sibling.
The family further claimed that the accused has a history of violent behavior and expressed frustration over the lack of police intervention despite previous complaints.
Abid’s mother reiterated these claims, connecting the incident to past events. “Eight years ago, he killed a man named Salim, and that case is still unresolved. On voting day, Salim’s family was also attacked. Now, my son has been shot in the eye,” she lamented, criticizing the police response.
The injured youth, identified as Abid Ahmed (Photo: AT)
Conversely, individuals associated with Mintu Ali have presented a different narrative, claiming they were the victims of aggression.
A woman at Mintu’s home stated that the conflict began on polling day when a group allegedly confronted and assaulted them.
“They pushed Neha Begum (Mintu’s wife), stole her jewelry, and attacked her,” she recounted, also alleging that their vehicles were vandalized on multiple occasions.
Begum attributed the violence to political tensions during the election. “About 25 to 30 of us were on our way to vote when we were surrounded and threatened not to support the BJP. I filed a police report, but due to election duties, no action was taken,” she claimed.
She further alleged that their home was attacked again, with assailants throwing stones, breaking windows, and launching petrol bombs. “I had to flee with my children,” she added.
Denying the accusations against her husband, she stated, “I am unaware of the shooting. It could have been someone from their group. Mintu has been away for the last two days as I advised him to stay clear to prevent further conflict.”
A youth purportedly involved in the violence admitted that vehicles were damaged and petrol bombs were used during the altercations.
Authorities indicated that the investigation is in its early stages. “We will act based on the statements collected. No arrests have been made yet,” an official noted, adding that further actions will follow a thorough investigation.
The atmosphere in the area remains tense, with officials closely monitoring the situation.