Guwahati, Sept 13: Assam Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh on Friday stated that the attack on police personnel during an eviction drive at Kachutoli Village was suspected to be part of a ‘conspiracy’ by certain individuals or groups.
The eviction drive had been peaceful since September 9, but the sudden violence raised concerns about orchestrated opposition.
Singh, who visited Kachutoli Village under Sonapur revenue circle in Kamrup Metro district on Friday, emphasized that the police are investigating the situation closely to identify the perpetrators behind the incident, which disrupted the otherwise calm process.
Singh further elaborated on the attack during the eviction drive, stating, “The eviction was continuing peacefully, but on Thursday, a certain section began attacking the police with sharp weapons. There are railway tracks nearby, and the attackers picked up stones from there to pelt at those on official duty.”
Singh said, “The eviction was continuing peacefully, but on Thursday, a certain section began attacking the police with sharp weapons. There are railway tracks nearby, and the attackers picked up stones from there to pelt at those on official duty.”
In response to the escalating violence, the police were forced to open fire, which resulted in the deaths of two protesters and injuries to 22 police personnel and 11 villagers.
Singh further added that both the district police and railway police have filed cases under relevant sections, suspecting a conspiracy and instigation behind the attack. “We suspect a conspiracy and that the incident of attack was instigated,” he said, confirming that several people have been detained for interrogation in connection with the incident.
The DGP revealed that local sources had informed authorities about unknown individuals attempting to settle and build houses in the area. “In the last month or so, many people from Bangladesh have tried to enter Assam, and as per the Chief Minister’s instructions, most of them have been pushed back with the efforts of Assam Police and the BSF,” Singh said.
He explained that the land in question is classified as tribal land under the Assam Land Regulations of 1886, restricted in 1950. Following instructions from the District Commissioner (DC), it was determined that the residents had to be evicted for violating land laws. “For seven days, many public announcements were made here about the violation of land rules and land laws,” Singh stated.
On September 9, the eviction drive began under the protection of Guwahati City Police, leading to the freeing of 248 bighas of tribal land from encroachment.
However, Singh noted that on Thursday, the situation took a violent turn when police personnel and government officials were suddenly targeted. “They were attacked with stones, swords, and bamboo. Police had to use force to prevent further harm to officials and police personnel,” Singh said.
Singh also clarified that only a protected class of citizens could legally reside on the demarcated tribal land, and those currently occupying it were not part of that group. He added, “It looks like an organized attack,” pointing to the possibility of a larger conspiracy behind the violence.
