Violent Attack on Food Stall in Lakhimpur Leads to Arrest and Outrage
Incident Overview
A mob clash allegedly attacking a couple over shop establishment near NH-15 in Lakhimpur (Photo: AT)
North Lakhimpur, June 16: Authorities in Lakhimpur have apprehended an individual and initiated an inquiry following claims that a woman was assaulted and stripped during a violent confrontation at a roadside food stall located on National Highway-15.
The arrested suspect has been identified as Harikanta Charingia, also referred to as Chayengia, who was named in the victim's complaint.
This incident unfolded at Kona Nadi, under the jurisdiction of Bogeenadi Police Station, on Monday night. As per the complaint, a disagreement at a food stall operated by a couple escalated when a group allegedly attacked the venue, damaging the stall and assaulting the owners.
The woman reported that she was publicly stripped and physically assaulted during the chaos.
In her report filed at the Chawuldhowa Police Outpost, the victim identified five individuals, including Harikanta Chayengia, Tulsi Payeng, Paplu Payeng, Tutu Kaman, and Zerifa Kaman, as her assailants.
She further claimed that the accused not only vandalized the roadside stall but also attacked both her and her husband.
Recalling the events, the woman stated that the group acted under the direction of Harikanta Chayengia.
“Besides him, there were Tulsi Payeng, Paplu Payeng, and Tutu Kaman. I have been enduring mental harassment. I seek justice,” she expressed.
Addressing the assault, she questioned, “How could they believe they had the right to verbally abuse me and attempt to kill me while tearing my clothes?”
Law enforcement officials indicated that they are working to locate the other individuals mentioned in the complaint. An official statement detailing the incident's circumstances or the specific charges has yet to be released.
The reported assault has incited anger among local residents, especially women, who condemned the public stripping of the victim, regardless of the preceding dispute.
A local resident remarked to the media that while the conflict reportedly stemmed from the establishment of a shop, there is no justification for the public assault and humiliation of a woman.
“Are women mere puppets? If the accused do not face severe consequences, we will have no choice but to take to the streets,” the resident warned.
Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and further actions will be determined based on the findings.