India: Violent clashes during general strike in Assam state January 25

Event

At least one person was killed and several others wounded in clashes between protesters and police during a 12-hour bandh (general strike) in Dima Hasao district (Assam state) on Thursday, January 25. The clashes reportedly broke out as police attempted to disperse a crowd that was obstructing the tracks near Maibang railway station and blocking the passage of a Silchar-bound train from Guwahati. Police fired tear gas and baton charged the protesters - resulting in several casualties - after the protesters reportedly attacked the train, damaged railway tracks, and hurled stones at police officers and their vehicles.

The bandh reportedly suspended public transportation, commerce, educational classes, postal services, and banking in the district. Police implemented a curfew in the Maibang area following the incident; it is unclear when regularly scheduled services will resume and the curfew will be lifted. Heightened security measures and lingering transportation disruptions are expected in Dima Hasao district in the coming hours and days. Further bandh actions or other protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

The bandh was organized by members of several civil society organizations in protest of the proposed inclusion of Dima Hasao district in a "Greater Nagalim," as proposed by ethnic Naga separatists in a draft accord between the separatist insurgents and the federal government.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to potential violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.​