Guwahati, April 26: A violent confrontation over illegal sand mining at the Dhanashree river in Silbari, Dalgaon (Darrang district) left four policemen injured and led to the arrest of 34 people on Friday night.
The clash erupted during a financial dispute between two rival contractor groups—one led by Kabir Ali and the other involving Zahidul Islam, Habibur Rahman, Ekmadul Haque, and Mustak Ahmed. Tensions escalated when local residents protested the illegal sand mining at the Silbari quarry, prompting police intervention.
As Shilbari police attempted to control the situation, they were violently attacked by an enraged mob. Sub-Inspector Rupankar Das, Major Pradeep Boro, Anand Das, and Jewel Hazarika were injured during the assault. SI Rupankar Das, critically wounded, was shifted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) after initial treatment at Kharupetia CHC and Mangaldai Civil Hospital.
Dalgaon police responded quickly, arresting 34 individuals, including Azad Ali, Mafidul Islam, and Abu Bakkar Siddique, who have been sent to judicial custody. Authorities also filed a separate case against 30 others accused for attacking police personnel, obstructing official duty, and damaging government vehicles. Sources estimate over 100 people were involved, with many suspects still absconding.
The root of the violence is linked to a long-standing monetary dispute between contractor groups. A prior legal complaint filed by contractor Kaushik Choudhury against Zahidul Islam and others for alleged extortion demands had already heightened tensions.
The incident has once again exposed the rampant issue of illegal sand mining in Darrang district, sparking serious concerns about governance and public safety.
The Darrang unit of the All Assam Minority Students’ Union (AAMSU) strongly condemned the violence and demanded strict action against those responsible.
In response to the unrest, the district administration has deployed military and paramilitary forces along the river to maintain order, with authorities remaining on high alert as tensions continue to simmer.
