Dhubri: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday said that 38 people have been arrested in connection with the recent incident in Dhubri district, where tensions flared after a cow’s head was found in front of a Hanuman temple.
The incident happened on Eid, June 7, when a cow’s head was discovered near the temple in Dhubri town. Just a day later, the same thing happened again—another cow’s head was found at the same spot, sparking public outrage and communal clashes in the area.
Following the unrest, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders on June 9, restricting gatherings and public movement. These restrictions were lifted the next day after the situation slightly improved.
In response to the rising tension, the state government has transferred the district’s Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Navin Singh, and appointed Hailakandi SSP Leena Doley in his place.
He further stated that a suspicious group has been trying to disturb peace in the region. According to him, the group had put up posters in Dhubri district demanding that it be merged with Bangladesh. As a result, he ordered “shoot-at-sight” during night hours to deal strictly with any unlawful activity.
The Chief Minister visited the affected areas on Friday, June 13, and held a review meeting with police and administration. He declared that his government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against those trying to disturb communal harmony.
“I visited Dhubri and directed law enforcement officers to follow ZERO tolerance against elements who desecrate our temples, Naamghars and sacred spaces. The incident of throwing beef at the town’s Hanuman Mandir should have NEVER happened, and those involved WON’T BE SPARED,” Sarma wrote on social media.
Talking to media, CM Sarma expressed his anger and said if needed, he would himself guard the Hanuman Mandir during the next Eid to ensure no such incident happens again.
The state government has launched an investigation into the matter, and security has been increased in sensitive areas to maintain law and order.