The Assam government today ordered the suspension of internet and mobile data services in the Chirang district with immediate effect until further notification, amid surging unrest following a violent clash between Bodo and Adivasi individuals on the night of 19 January.
Additionally, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been deployed to contain the violence and prevent its spread to other areas.
The measure was taken after the District Magistrate of Chirang District submitted a report to the state government regarding the deterioration of law and order in the district. The state government has ordered the suspension to prevent the spread of inflammatory messages and rumours that may aggravate the situation. However, voice calls and broadband services based on fixed telephone lines will remain functional during this period
The notification was issued by Assam Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Tewari under the provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017.
The official notification reads: “Any violation of the promulgation will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and also under the relevant provision of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, a notification further read.”
As per the authorities, the incident was reported on Mansingh Road, under the Karigaon outpost of Kokrajhar Police Station, wherein a vehicle carrying three Bodo individuals hit two Adivasi individuals. The collision led to a clash that intensified into a violent conflict. Reportedly, Bodo individuals were beaten by local Adivasi villagers, and the vehicle was set on fire.
Following the incident, both the Bodo and Adivasi communities have blocked the National Highway adjacent to Karigaon outpost. Several houses and an office building were also set on fire. The Karigaon outpost was also attacked.