Communal clash raises questions on Cachar District Administration's preparedness in precautionary measures

The tranquil city of Silchar in Assam’s Cachar district was marred by a communal clash that erupted in the Panchayat Road area earlier today, leaving tensions high and prompting questions about the preparedness of the district administration. The clash, involving two communities, reportedly stemmed from allegations of an attack on a place of worship. Also, trespassing of homes for alleged cow slaughtering activities, as well as claims of attacks on innocent pedestrians and drivers in the area.

Swiftly responding to the escalating situation, the Cachar Police deployed forces and successfully restored law and order in the affected areas. Moreover, the police promptly addressed the ripple effects of the incident reported in Rongpur, Chirukandi, and other parts of the town. However, the occurrence of these isolated incidents has now sparked inquiries into the role played by the District Administration in ensuring adequate measures for the upcoming election.

The city has recently witnessed an upsurge in provocative statements from various quarters in opposition to the delimitation draft proposed by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The draft suggests a reduction in the number of Assembly seats in Barak Valley from 15 to 13 and the reservation of the Silchar Lok Sabha seat for SC candidates. These proposals have triggered widespread protests across communities in Barak Valley since their public announcement.

In response to the draft, several organizations called for a Barak Bandh on June 27, which saw significant participation from people across religious and political affiliations, except for the Kaibarta Unnayan Samaj. The spokesperson for the Kaibarta Unnayan Samaj labeled the supporters of the Bandh as “extremists” and asserted their ability to counter any such gathering, citing the presence of 4000 tuk-tuks under their command in Silchar.

In an attempt to ensure peaceful observance of Eid-Al-Adha, the Deputy Commissioner of Cachar, Rohan Kumar Jha, had convened a peace meeting on June 26. However, due to prior commitments, the meeting was chaired by officials appointed by the Deputy Commissioner. Notable figures, including Industrialist and Editor-in-Chief of Samayik Prasanga, Taimur Raja Choudhury, and Senior Advocate Imad Uddin Bulbul, attended the meeting.

Imad Uddin Bulbul expressed his concerns regarding law and order during the meeting with the district administration. He highlighted the natural suspicion of the police when it comes to maintaining order, in contrast to the perspectives of religious leaders who often see the world as filled with divine individuals. Considering the Barak Bandh and the counter-narrative surrounding it, Bulbul emphasized the need for enhanced security measures, anticipating potential law and order challenges during the occasion of Eid.

 The veteran advocate added that some vulnerable points were highlighted by him in unison with Taimur Raja Choudhury and the incident that occurred today happened to be one of them. “In the meeting we also discussed the necessity of CCTV cameras at vulnerable spots as those can help in curbing such untoward incidents,” added, Imad Uddin Bulbul. 

While the police are currently investigating the communal tension, it would be premature to draw conclusions at this stage. However, the occurrence of this clash has undeniably raised questions about the preparedness of the district administration in implementing precautionary measures to ensure the safety and harmony of the community.

As the investigation unfolds, the authorities will be closely scrutinized to ascertain the effectiveness of their efforts in preventing such incidents and upholding the values of peace and communal harmony in Silchar and its surrounding areas.