Karbi Anglong dispute: Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, Debabrata Saikia, has demanded an immediate inquiry into the recent arson of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang’s house and what he described as the suspected destruction of evidence. In a detailed letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Saikia highlighted the gravity of the incident, stating that the arson occurred on December 22, 2025, during heated protests over the protection of PGR/VGR land in Karbi Anglong. The unrest resulted in clashes between protesters and police, the imposition of curfew, and deployment of a large police contingent.
Allegations of Mishandling and Evidence Destruction
Saikia alleged that prior to the arson, Ronghang had organized a dinner party on December 21, during which he reportedly ordered police to forcibly remove protesters engaged in a hunger strike. The protesters were later transferred to Gauhati Medical College & Hospital, instead of the nearby Diphu Medical College, allegedly escalating tensions in the area. After Ronghang’s house was set ablaze, Saikia claimed the CEM demolished it with a bulldozer, potentially destroying crucial evidence. The house was reportedly relevant to investigations under multiple sections of the BNS, including negligent conduct, mischief by fire, rioting, and assaulting or obstructing public servants.
Corruption Concerns and Legal Violations
Saikia raised concerns that the demolition may have been intended to conceal documents related to corruption, noting that Ronghang faced local allegations of financial misconduct. He criticized the police for not searching or analyzing the debris, recording videography, or collecting forensic evidence, increasing suspicions that relevant documents or illicit funds could have been deliberately destroyed. Saikia stressed that such acts violate the CrPC, which mandates preservation of crime scenes and evidence, and undermine public trust in the local administration and governance system.
Call for Central Intervention and Judicial Inquiry
Highlighting the special status of Karbi Anglong under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, Saikia urged the Central Government to intervene in the investigation, particularly given that direct financial aid is provided to tribal areas under the schedule. He demanded a judicial or district magistrate-led inquiry to investigate both the arson and destruction of evidence, ascertain the role of the administration, and submit an urgent report. According to Saikia, immediate intervention by the central authorities is crucial to restore public trust, ensure accountability, and uphold constitutional supremacy in Karbi Anglong.
