Guwahati, Jan 11: The Kokrajhar district administration has imposed prohibitory orders across the district following reports of the alleged rape of a mentally challenged woman, as growing public anger raised serious concerns over law and order. The restrictions were enforced to prevent escalation of unrest and to safeguard lives and public property.
District Magistrate Pankaj Chakravarty invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, citing credible apprehensions of disturbances and unlawful gatherings. The decision followed reports of trespassing, vandalism and aggressive mob activity in and around the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Secretariat and nearby areas.
Officials said intelligence inputs indicate the likelihood of further protests and agitational programmes, including bandhs, dharnas, sit-ins and blockades on railway lines and national highways, which could disrupt public life and obstruct government functioning. The administration also referred to past incidents in the district where breaches of public order had led to loss of lives, underscoring the need for preventive action.
The prohibitory measures, which came into force with immediate effect, aim to ensure smooth movement of citizens while preventing damage to government offices and public assets. Authorities stressed that the orders are precautionary in nature and intended to maintain stability during a sensitive period.
Separately, the district administration issued an advisory cautioning residents against rumours and misinformation being circulated on social media. Officials said misleading content is being deliberately spread by certain elements, creating panic and threatening communal harmony. The administration warned that those found spreading false information would face strict legal action.
To counter misinformation, a dedicated control room has been set up, and members of the public have been urged to report rumours or suspicious content by calling 8471875491. District officials have appealed for calm, restraint and cooperation from all sections of society, reiterating that maintaining peace and order remains the administration’s top priority.
