Controversy Brews: Youths Detained Over Eco-Protest Art in Guwahati

Two youths were arrested for creating an allegedly objectionable painting as part of a protest against tree felling in Guwahati. Despite being detained for bailable offenses, they were charged under a non-bailable act. Local protests against tree felling have intensified, drawing wider attention.

Two youths, named Marshal Baruah and Angkuman Bordoloi, have been arrested in Guwahati after allegedly creating an objectionable painting during protests against tree felling for a railway overbridge. The arrests took place on Monday, with charges including unlawful assembly and criminal intimidation.

Despite the offences being bailable, they faced additional charges under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, which is not bailable. The court has denied them bail, sending them into judicial custody. Their lawyer revealed that another youth involved, Kamal Kumar, was released.

This incident is part of a larger wave of protests in Guwahati over environmental concerns, as locals oppose the cutting of trees for development projects. The city recently saw disputes over tree felling for a flyover in Dighalipukhuri, sparking legal challenges and political debate.

(With inputs from agencies.)