Shoot-at-sight orders in trouble-torn Assam districts

Guwahati, Aug 18 (UNI) Shoot-at-sight orders were issued in communal trouble-torn northern Assam districts of Darrang, Sonitpur and Udalguri today even as authorities worked overtime to stop the indigenous tribes and minority villagers from clashing.

No fresh incidents were reported from any part after the areas witnessed communal violence since Thursday last, during which two persons were killed, several wounded and houses torched.

Army has been already deployed in the troubled areas, with the effected areas today divided into three zones and 22 sectors for better vigilance.

Three police officials of the rank of superintendent have been deployed in the zones, to assist the district and police administration.

The entire villages of the minority community have reportedly vacated their homes and taken shelter in safer places, with the authorities providing security.

State Health Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma and state Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain are camping in the districts since yesterday, along with top officials, including state Home Commissioner Rajiv Bora and IGP (law and order) BJ Mahanta.

Peace committees were formed in all the disturbed areas and they were being given responsibility to check fresh incidents, with the ministers and officials trying their best to pacify the people.

Rumours were doing the rounds and a simmering tension prevailed, prompting the shoot-at-sight orders.

The worst affected Saparabasti continued to remain tense since yesterday when about 40 houses were set ablaze in a minority village and the attackers had also opened fire, injuring at least six persons.

Principal Secretary (Home) Subhas Das told newsmen that additional police and paramilitary personnel were sent to the affected places.

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