People's Democracy

Violence In Karbi Anglong

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) issued the following statement on October 20, 2005.

THE ethnic violence in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam has led to a grave situation. For three weeks, attacks and counter attacks involving Karbi and Dimasa tribal communities have led to 75 people being killed and hundreds of houses being set on fire and burnt down.

While the situation was deteriorating the state government was unable to comprehend the gravity of the situation and failed to intervene effectively. Armed militants of chauvinist organisations on either side have violated the ceasefire and resorted to fratricidal killings.

The central government should intervene and ensure that sufficient security forces are deployed to firmly put down the armed gangs and restore peace. Concerted efforts must be made by the Left and democratic forces to heal the rift and establish unity among the different communities residing in this autonomous district.