Kokrajhar, January 20: One person was killed and four others seriously injured in a violent mob attack at Karigaon in Kokrajhar on Monday night, prompting the arrest of at least 18 persons and the suspension of mobile internet and data services across the district.
The deceased has been identified as Sikhwna Jwhwlao Bismit, also known as Raja Bismit Basumatary (30). The injured — Prabhat Brahma, Jubiraj Brahma, Sunil Murmu and Mahesh Murmu — were admitted to Kokrajhar Medical College and Hospital. Doctors stated that the condition of Prabhat Brahma remains critical.
According to police and local sources, the incident occurred in the Mashing Road area of Gauri Nagar, Karigaon, following a road accident linked to ongoing road construction work. Contractor Boranda Basumatary’s son-in-law Sikhwna Jwhwlao Bismit, along with a roller driver and others, had reportedly gone to the area to transport construction materials. While returning in a Scorpio vehicle, locals allegedly suspected them of causing an accident and later of cattle theft, leading to a violent confrontation.
The situation escalated rapidly, with the mob attacking the occupants, setting the Scorpio vehicle on fire and completely destroying it. Bismit later succumbed to severe injuries.
Lawrence Islary, MLA from Kokrajhar, strongly condemned the incident and demanded strict action against those responsible. Contractor Boranda Basumatary also called for exemplary punishment for the culprits.
Meanwhile, Dipen Boro, President of the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU), termed the incident a “barbaric act” and alleged serious administrative lapses. ABSU demanded immediate arrest of all perpetrators and urged people to maintain peace and communal harmony.
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Following the deterioration of law and order, the Assam Government suspended mobile internet and data services in Kokrajhar district with immediate effect. Police said massive investigations are underway, additional forces have been deployed, and security has been tightened as protests, road blockades and demands for justice continue across the district.
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement while investigations progress.
