Violence in Kheroni, West Karbi Anglong: A Call for Action and Investigation
In a significant visit aimed at addressing the recent violence in Kheroni, West Karbi Anglong, a delegation of opposition political leaders from various parties in Assam convened on December 30, 2025. This event sheds light on the ongoing political unrest in the region and raises questions about the state government's ability to maintain law and order.
Opposition Leaders' Visit and Demands
Led by the Leader of the Opposition in Assam Legislative Assembly (ALA), Debabrata Saikia, the delegation included leaders from the Congress, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), Raijor Dal, CPI(M), CPI, and CPI(ML). The visiting leaders met various groups affected by the violence and conducted an on-the-spot inquiry into the incidents.
Following the inquiry, the delegation decided to meet the Assam Governor on December 31 and submit a memorandum demanding an inquiry into the violent incidents in West Karbi Anglong district. Saikia accused the state government of failing to control the law-and-order situation, resulting in two lives lost and several injuries in Kheroni.
The delegation also demanded compensation for the families of the deceased and injured and an investigation into the losses caused by the violent incidents, as well as relief for the affected persons.
Allegations of Political Conspiracy and Divide-and-Rule Tactics
After concluding their visit, the opposition parties alleged that there was a political conspiracy behind the incident and that the policy of divide and rule was being pursued by creating divisions between hills and plains and among different communities and tribes for vote-bank interests.
The delegation also criticized the BJP for demanding President's Rule over minor incidents in West Bengal while failing to take concrete steps in Assam despite being engulfed in violence. They accused the Assam government and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) of failing to handle the situation.
Allegations Against KAAC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang
Saikia further alleged widespread irregularities and rampant corruption by KAAC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang, which he claimed had led to an anarchic situation in the district. He urged for a detailed examination of the PGR VGR land issue during evictions and for investigating the arson at Ronghang's residence and the subsequent demolition of his house by bulldozers by members of his family.
Relevance to North East Region and India
The ongoing violence in Kheroni underscores the challenges faced by Assam and the North East region in maintaining peace and order. The allegations of political conspiracy and divide-and-rule tactics have implications for regional unity and harmony, particularly in areas with diverse communities and tribes.
The allegations of corruption and mismanagement against the KAAC also raise concerns about governance and accountability in the region, which are crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of its people.
Looking Forward: Seeking Justice and Peace in Kheroni
As the opposition leaders continue their fight for justice and peace in Kheroni, it is essential for the Assam government to address the concerns raised by the delegation and take concrete steps to restore law and order in the district. The ongoing violence serves as a stark reminder of the need for effective governance, transparency, and accountability in the region.
The people of Assam and the North East region deserve a peaceful and prosperous future, free from political machinations and corruption. It is the responsibility of all political leaders to work towards this goal and ensure the welfare of their constituents.