Guwahati: The Assam Police have arrested over 150 individuals and identified the alleged mastermind behind the recent communal unrest in Dhubri district, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday.
The unrest was sparked by incidents involving cattle parts being thrown in front of a temple, leading to heightened tensions in the area.
The chief minister, during his second visit to Dhubri in 10 days, reviewed the law and order situation in the sensitive district following the disturbances after the Eid-ul-Zuha festival.
He revealed that among those arrested were 11 individuals from outside Assam with pending criminal cases.
“Our zero-tolerance approach has resulted in the apprehension of over 150 anti-social elements. However, we remain vigilant against communal forces,” Sarma said.
The alleged mastermind, identified as Mintu Ali, is currently absconding. “We urge him to surrender immediately,” Sarma added.
The police have intensified surveillance across Dhubri to prevent further unrest.
To bolster security in the district, which borders Bangladesh, Sarma indicated that the government is considering establishing a permanent Indian Army base.
The unrest began after a cow’s skull was discovered in front of the Hanuman Temple in Dhubri’s district headquarters the day after Bakrid.
Despite appeals for peace by members of both Hindu and Muslim communities, the following day saw a repeat of the provocation, with a cow’s head placed near the temple and incidents of stone-pelting reported.
The chief minister had earlier issued shoot-at-sight orders during nighttime to maintain order in the district.
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Sarma also highlighted the provocative activities of a group called ‘Nabin Bangla,’ which had put up posters advocating for Dhubri’s inclusion in Bangladesh.
The incidents have been linked to illegal cattle slaughter during Bakrid, with reports of meat being thrown at multiple locations across the state.
Sarma assured that the police are actively pursuing those responsible and that arrests will follow soon.
“The state government is unwavering in its commitment to maintaining law and order in Dhubri. We will not allow communal forces to disrupt harmony,” Sarma stated.
