DC Karimganj initiates a magistrate inquiry to probe the encounter in Badarpur; One had died on Aug 24

On August 23, BSF and Karimganj Police, in a joint operation arrested two individuals from a train in possession of guns. Late that night, Nurul Islam, who was arrested with the weapon, died in an encounter in Nirala, Badarpur. Since then, the role of OC Badarpur has been under scanner. The deputy commissioner of Karimganj Khgeswar Pegu has initiated a magistrate inquiry.

Speaking with Barak Bulletin, Pegu said, “Yes, it is true that a magistrate inquiry has been initiated to probe the circumstances under which the incident occurred. The additional district magistrate will conduct an independent inquiry to identify the chain of events.

He warned, “Just an inquiry has been initiated and it would be incorrect for anyone including me to draw conclusions. After the magistrate completes the inquiry, a report will be submitted to the government and through proper channel of communications, the details will be unveiled.”

Ater the encounter, the superintendent of Police, Karimganj, Padmanabh Baruah spoke with Barak Bulletin and he explained that late at night, Nurul Islam, who is a resident of the Patherkandi area confessed that there are more arms in his possession that have been kept at a hideout. “He led a team of Police officials to the spot under Badarpur Police Station and there he pushed one of the constables and snatched his gun. Moments later, he started firing and in retaliation, the police had to open fire,” informed Padmanabh Baruah, SP Karimganj.

Nurul Islam was immediately rushed to the Karimganj Civil Hospital where the treating doctors declared him dead. His dead body was then sent for postmortem. When asked if any Police officials incurred injuries as Nurul Islam opened fire, Baruah responded, “One Police official incurred injuries as he slipped off. But no one has incurred any bullet injury.”

How a man, suspected to be a weapon smuggler who should have been handcuffed, managed to push the constable and snatch his gun, is something that necessitated a probe. Therefore, as per the government of Assam’s recommendation, a magistrate inquiry has been called. Will the inquiry manage to settle all doubts? It remains to be seen.