Kokrajhar: A peace meeting was convened at the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Secretariat on Wednesday to address the aftermath of recent unrest in the district, with senior ministers and community leaders calling for calm, communal harmony, and a renewed focus on development in the region.
Speaking to the press after the meeting, BTC Cabinet Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah expressed concern over the recent incidents, noting that they disrupted the administration’s focus on progress. “Whatever happened over the past two days should not have happened. We are deeply pained by these incidents. This is the time for development in the BTC, and such disturbances only derail progress,” he said. The meeting was attended by BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary, Cabinet Minister Charan Boro, and representatives from various social and community organisations.
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Mallabaruah said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been closely monitoring the situation and issuing directives. Police and security personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas, and discussions during the meeting focused on building consensus and restoring confidence among residents. He added that relief camps for displaced families were being reviewed, and safe returns would be organised once conditions permit. Mallabaruah announced he would revisit Kokrajhar on January 23 to meet families of those affected and ensure proper assistance.
BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary highlighted the participation of all communities—Muslim, Bodo, Adivasi, Bengali, and others—emphasising a shared desire for peace. Five relief camps are operational, and officials hope residents will return home soon. Representatives at the meeting suggested early relief, grassroots peace committees, and educational support for students appearing in upcoming exams.
The unrest reportedly began after a road accident on January 19 escalated into communal clashes the following day, leaving two people dead and several homes damaged. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 remain in force in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts to prevent further escalation. Another peace meeting is scheduled for Thursday at the District Commissioner’s conference hall to discuss solutions further.
