Protest Turns Violent in Dhubri’s Golakganj
Tensions flared in Dhubri district’s Golakganj on Thursday evening when police used lathi charge on members of the Koch-Rajbongshi community. The protest, demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, was organized by the All Koch-Rajbongshi Students’ Union (AKRSU) with support from its Dhubri West District unit.
Hundreds of demonstrators, including students and local residents, marched through the town carrying banners and shouting slogans. They pressed the Assam government to urgently recognize the Koch-Rajbongshi community as an ST group, a long-standing demand.
However, the peaceful demonstration quickly turned chaotic when security forces moved in. Police resorted to baton charges to disperse the crowd, leaving more than a hundred people, including women, injured. Many were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
AKRSU Condemns Police Action
Both the All Koch-Rajbongshi Students’ Union and its district wing condemned the police response. Leaders termed the lathi charge “excessive and unjustified,” alleging that the protesters were exercising their democratic right.
In a statement, AKRSU leaders said, “Our demand for ST status is constitutional and legitimate. The use of force against peaceful demonstrators is unacceptable. We will continue to fight for the rights of our community.”
The organizations further warned that if their demands were ignored, they would intensify the movement. A bandh call has already been issued, raising fears of disruption to daily life, trade, and transportation across Dhubri and adjoining areas.
Demand for Administrative Action
Alongside the demand for ST status, the protesters also called for the transfer of the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Dhubri and the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Golakganj police station. While details behind this demand remain unclear, community leaders insist the move is essential for justice and accountability.
The district administration has yet to issue an official response regarding the lathi charge, the bandh call, or the condition of the injured. Meanwhile, local authorities are on alert as the tense situation threatens to escalate if dialogue is not initiated soon.
Koch-Rajbongshi Community’s Long-Standing Demand
The Koch-Rajbongshi community has for decades sought recognition as a Scheduled Tribe, arguing that it would help uplift their socio-economic and educational status. Successive governments in Assam have made promises but have not delivered on the demand, fueling frustration among community members.
Activists point out that granting ST status would allow the community greater access to government schemes, education quotas, and employment opportunities. The issue has become both a political and cultural flashpoint, influencing regional elections and alliances in Lower Assam.
Situation Remains Tense in Golakganj
As night fell, tension continued to grip Golakganj. Shops and markets closed early as residents feared further clashes. Extra security forces were deployed in sensitive areas to maintain order.
The bandh call has left many residents worried about economic disruption and restricted movement in the coming days. Civic groups have appealed for calm and urged both the government and protesters to engage in dialogue to prevent violence.
For now, the situation remains volatile, with the injured recovering and protesters vowing to keep the pressure on the Assam government. The episode has once again brought the Koch-Rajbongshi demand for Scheduled Tribe status into the political spotlight.