Assam Eviction Drive Turns Deadly: Two Protestors Killed as Police Open Fire

Two protestors were killed by police during an eviction drive in Assam's Kamrup (Metropolitan) district. The incident occurred when the police faced a violent mob of villagers who attacked them with weapons. Several officials and security personnel were injured in the clash. Additional security has been deployed to stabilize the area.

In a tragic turn of events, two protestors were killed on Thursday when police opened fire during an eviction drive in Assam's Kamrup (Metropolitan) district. Officials reported that the police resorted to firing after being attacked by a mob attempting to prevent the eviction of alleged encroachers.

According to an official, the clash occurred when a team comprising Sonapur circle office members and police officers went to Kochutoli village to remove Bengali-speaking Muslim villagers who had reoccupied previously cleared land. Despite warnings, villagers, including women, attacked the officials and policemen with sharp weapons, sticks, and stones, resulting in injuries to a magistrate and more than 20 police personnel. A police vehicle was also damaged.

In the ensuing chaos, two protestors were injured by police fire and later succumbed to their injuries at Sonapur district hospital. The deceased have been identified as Jubahir Ali and Haider Ali. The situation has since been brought under control, but tension remains high in the region. Additional security forces have been deployed to the village as a precautionary measure.

(With inputs from agencies.)