A Bihu troupe was allegedly assaulted during a Durga Puja programme organised by Hindustan Club in Assam’s Sribhumi district after a group of people reportedly objected to Assamese songs being played in the Barak Valley, according to an initial report on Saturday.
The group allegedly confronted the performers, insisting that Assamese songs should not be played in the region, before attacking them. All members of the troupe reportedly sustained serious injuries.
The attackers also allegedly damaged several traditional Bihu musical instruments, with some reportedly taken away. A gold chain belonging to one of the young performers was also allegedly stolen during the incident.
The troupe had been invited to perform at the Durga Puja event organised by Hindustan Club. The alleged assault has raised concerns about the safety of cultural performers at public events in the region.
The incident drew condemnation, with calls for a thorough investigation and legal action against those responsible. A statement on the incident urged Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to ensure a proper inquiry and called for the accused to be punished in accordance with the law.
Details about the identities of those allegedly involved, the circumstances leading to the confrontation and whether the police had registered a case or made any arrests were not available in the initial report.
The allegations have not been independently verified, and further details are awaited from the police and other authorities.
