Congress Criticizes Assam Government Over Karbi Anglong Unrest

Allegations of Negligence in Karbi Anglong

Guwahati, Dec 26: Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition from Congress, has accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, along with Tuliram Ronghang, the Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), of negligence that led to the recent turmoil in Karbi Anglong.

During a press briefing in Guwahati, Saikia stated that the violence was not an isolated incident but rather a result of administrative shortcomings and political maneuvering.

“The unrest in Karbi Anglong was not an overnight occurrence. It stemmed from the government's negligence. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives for political motives. We vehemently condemn this incident and demand the protection of the character and spirit of the Sixth Schedule areas,” Saikia asserted.

In response to the Chief Minister's assertion that court orders restricted evictions from Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) lands, Saikia pointed out that contempt of court cases have already been initiated against the government in both the Gauhati High Court and the Supreme Court.

He referenced the eviction drive in Kachutoli, where contempt proceedings were launched against the state government for allegedly disregarding court orders.

“The government has consistently engaged in contempt of court. When court orders are ignored, contempt petitions are filed, and the state must justify its non-compliance,” he claimed.

Saikia also alleged that even within Sixth Schedule areas, the government has breached court directives by granting land to corporate giants like Adani and Ambani.

“This clearly indicates that the government is willing to defy the courts when it aligns with its political agenda,” he remarked.

In the meantime, the Assam government is set to hold a tripartite meeting today involving the state government, KAAC, and representatives from the local protesting community.