Blood Stains Mull Panchayat Polls in Cachar’s Katigorah, Five Injured Rushed to SMCH

The sanctity of the Panchayat elections in Cachar’s Katigorah was marred by bloodshed and chaos as violence erupted at Polling Station 876, Boalipar LP School, in the Tarinipur area on Friday, leaving five people injured and the polling process temporarily halted.

Polling Station No. 2, under Fulbari-Tarinipur Gaon Panchayat, became the epicentre of unrest after a brawl broke out early in the day. According to allegations raised by a polling agent representing ward member candidate Khaleda Begum, the violence was not without warning.

“I had submitted multiple complaints to the District Administration through the Circle Officer, flagging the risk of booth capturing, rigging, and possible violence. All my concerns were ignored,” the agent claimed. “What I feared unfolded right before our eyes. As polling began, a mob assaulted me at the booth. My uncle, who tried to rescue me, was beaten up by the same group.”

The situation escalated quickly, forcing law enforcement agencies to intervene. Additional police personnel were rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control. Five individuals wounded in the clash were immediately transported to Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) for medical treatment.

The eruption of violence led to a temporary disruption of the polling process at the booth. However, once adequate security reinforcement was deployed, the voting process resumed.

While the District Administration is yet to issue an official statement on the allegations of ignored warnings and security lapses, the incident raises serious concerns about the preparedness and responsiveness of authorities in ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.

In this regard, SP Cachar said, “This incident was between two groups of candidates and their supporters. It has nothing to do with the polling station and is limited to their own issues, which stemmed from a clash of words and opinions. The polling agents had a fight, and we deployed forces. The OC has also reached the spot to bring the situation under control and ensure that the voting process continues smoothly.”

As Panchayat elections continue across Assam, the incident at Boalipar LP School serves as a grim reminder of the fragile peace that underpins grassroots democracy.