Barpeta, June 3: A disturbing case of alleged moral policing has surfaced in Assam’s Barpeta district, where two teenagers were reportedly tied to a pole, assaulted and forcibly tonsured over accusations of pigeon theft, triggering widespread public outrage.
The incident occurred at a ferry ghat near the residence of village headman Omar Uddin in Saorar Bhitha village under Baghbar police station. According to local sources, the two minors, residents of Balajan Char, were accused of stealing pigeons from the house of one Hamed Ali in the same locality.
Instead of being handed over to law enforcement, a group of villagers allegedly subjected the teenagers to public humiliation and physical assault. Eyewitnesses said the victims were tied to a pole and beaten in full public view, while their heads were forcibly shaved as part of the punishment.
A video purportedly showing the assault has since gone viral on social media, fuelling sharp criticism and raising concerns over law and order in the area. The footage has also intensified demands for accountability and action against those involved.
The victims were later rescued by their family members, who reached the spot and took them home. The incident has drawn strong reactions locally, particularly as it reportedly occurred in the presence of members of the village defence party (VDP) from Morabhaj village.
Residents and rights groups have questioned why the matter was not reported to police and why the accused minors were subjected to what they describe as “mob justice” instead of legal procedures.
The incident has sparked anger across Baghbar, with calls for a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible. Police have not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
