Tensions have flared in Assam’s Dhubri town after repeated incidents involving cattle heads being placed near a Hanuman temple just after Eid al-Adha. In response, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced night-time shoot-at-sight orders to control the situation, calling it a strong message against communal provocation.
The first incident happened on June 7, a day after Bakrid, when a cow’s head was discovered near the temple. A second head was found the very next day. Despite initial appeals for peace from both Hindu and Muslim communities, unrest escalated after reports of stone-pelting at night.
Assam CM Orders Shoot-at-Sight
“This incident should never have happened. We are adopting a zero-tolerance policy against those who desecrate temples and sacred spaces,” said CM Sarma during his visit to Dhubri, Assam.
Security personnel, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have since been deployed. Although prohibitory orders were imposed and later withdrawn, the district remains tense.
CM Blames ‘Beef Mafia’
CM Sarma blamed a “communal group” for attempting to incite violence and disturb social harmony. He also accused a newly emerged “beef mafia” of bringing thousands of cattle from West Bengal to Dhubri before Eid, calling it part of a larger criminal network. A full investigation has been ordered.
He raised alarm over posters reportedly put up by a group called ‘Nabin Bangla,’ which allegedly promoted the idea of merging Dhubri with Bangladesh. Sarma claimed that extremist elements were using such tactics both online and offline to spark unrest.
“I have issued shoot-at-sight orders at night. If someone throws stones and the police have doubts about their intentions, they will shoot,” said Sarma. He also promised to personally oversee security in Dhubri during future Eid celebrations if needed.
“We cannot allow a section of the community to create such disturbances. Our government will not tolerate this and allow Dhubri to go out of our hands,” he added.