Local priest's killing by CRPF, SULFA evokes protests in Assam

Sivsagar, Apr 16 (UNI) The 'cold-blooded' murder of a priest by CRPF and SULFA men in Assam's Sivasagar district on Sunday last evoked strong protests, with about a thousand people blocking the National Highway 37.

Residents of Himparagaon near Mahmara in Sivsagar and other people blocked NH 37 since this morning, protesting the killing of the local 'namghoria' (priest) Dulen Barua (55) and demanded punishment for the atrocities and excesses perpetrated by the security forces in the name of counter-insurgency operations.

They demanded complete inquiry as well as compensation to the family of the deceased.

Barua was allegedly shot dead from point blank range by the surrendered ULFA (SULFA) men in presence of CRPF on the evening of April 13 alleging that he maintained contacts with the ULFA and provided shelter to its cadres.

The CRPF and SULFA men had faked an encounter to cover the cold-blooded murder, the villagers alleged.

Barua's family members, including his wife, and two guests visiting his residence on the occasion of Bihu that day were also allegedly physically tortured by the CRPF and SULFA, accusing them of maintaining ULFA contacts.

The murder of the local priest during Bihu by security forces had sent shock waves across the state.

UNI XC-SG KK DB1855