Violence Erupts Over Protected Land Dispute in Assam’s Tribal Districts, Internet Services Suspended
GUWAHATI, India — A violent confrontation erupted in Assam’s tribal districts over a long-standing dispute regarding protected land, leading to significant unrest and the suspension of internet services in the region. The clashes, which began on December 22, 2025, have resulted in injuries to multiple individuals and damage to property, including the residence of a prominent local leader.
The conflict centers around the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), which governs the Karbi Anglong district, and the surrounding areas that are home to various indigenous tribes. Tensions escalated when a group of tribal residents protested against what they described as encroachments on their ancestral lands. The protesters alleged that non-tribal individuals were illegally occupying land designated as protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides for the autonomy of tribal areas in northeastern states.
The Sixth Schedule was enacted to safeguard the rights and interests of indigenous communities, allowing them to maintain control over land and resources. However, disputes over land ownership and usage have been a persistent issue in Assam, where demographic changes and economic pressures have led to conflicts between tribal and non-tribal populations.
According to local authorities, the protests turned violent when clashes broke out between demonstrators and law enforcement personnel. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos, with protesters reportedly setting fire to vehicles and property, including the residence of KAAC chief Tuliram Ronghang. In response to the escalating violence, the Assam government imposed a curfew in affected areas and suspended internet services to prevent the spread of misinformation and further unrest.
The decision to suspend internet services has drawn criticism from various quarters, including civil rights advocates who argue that such measures infringe on citizens’ rights to information and communication. However, officials maintain that the suspension is necessary to maintain public order and safety.
The violence in Assam’s tribal districts is part of a broader pattern of land disputes in the region, which has seen increasing tensions between indigenous communities and settlers from other parts of India. Over the past few decades, Assam has experienced significant demographic changes, with an influx of migrants leading to competition for land and resources. This has often resulted in violent confrontations, particularly in areas designated for tribal governance.
The implications of the current unrest are significant, not only for the immediate communities involved but also for the broader political landscape in Assam. The state has a history of ethnic and communal tensions, and incidents like these can exacerbate divisions and lead to further violence. Political leaders and local organizations are calling for dialogue and reconciliation to address the underlying issues contributing to the conflict.
In the wake of the violence, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma convened an emergency meeting with senior officials to assess the situation and formulate a response. The government has emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of indigenous communities while also ensuring law and order in the region. Sarma has urged all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the dispute.
The situation remains fluid, with security forces deployed in affected areas to maintain order. Local leaders are calling for calm and urging residents to refrain from violence, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the land dispute. As the government works to restore normalcy, the long-term implications of the unrest will likely continue to resonate throughout Assam and its tribal districts.
The events in Assam highlight the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities in India, particularly in regions where land rights and governance are contentious issues. As the situation develops, it will be crucial for stakeholders to address the root causes of the conflict and work towards sustainable solutions that respect the rights and aspirations of all communities involved.
