Assam: Violence Erupts in Boko Ahead of RHAC Polls

BOKO– Tensions flared in Gamerimura, Boko, today as election-related violence broke out ahead of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) polls scheduled for April 2. The unrest, marked by acts of arson and vandalism, has cast a shadow over the electoral process in this sensitive region of Assam’s Kamrup district, raising concerns about public safety and the integrity of the upcoming elections.

The violence erupted late Monday night in Gamerimura, a village under the 27 No. Boko Council Constituency, following a clash between rival factions vying for control in the RHAC elections.

According to local reports, unidentified agitators targeted the office of Tilottama Rabha, a candidate representing the Rabha Hasong Joint Struggle Committee and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) from the 24 No. Luki Constituency.

The office was set ablaze, reducing it to ashes, while the nearby Gamerimura All Rabha Students’ Union (ARSU) office was vandalized, sustaining extensive damage. Private property was not spared either—one motorbike was torched, and another was severely damaged in the chaos.

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Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic as flames lit up the night sky and residents fled their homes fearing further escalation. “It started suddenly,” said a local resident who requested anonymity. “We heard shouts, and then we saw the fire. It’s terrifying to see this happening so close to the elections.”

Police from the Boko Police Station responded swiftly, arriving at the scene late Monday night to restore order and prevent further unrest. Authorities have launched an in-depth investigation to identify the perpetrators and determine the motives behind the violence.

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“We are working to bring the situation under control and ensure that such incidents do not recur,” a senior police official stated. “A heightened police presence will remain in the area to maintain peace.”

The RHAC elections, which will see 445,586 voters across 36 constituencies decide the council’s leadership, have been a focal point of political activity in Kamrup and Goalpara districts.

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The council, established to promote development and preserve the Rabha ethnic identity, has been a contentious arena for competing political groups, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and the Rabha Hasong Jautho Moncho (RHJM).

The BJP, allied with RHJM, has expressed confidence in securing a mandate, while opposition parties have accused the ruling coalition of neglecting local issues.

Meanwhile, the  situation in Gamerimura remains tense but stable, with police patrolling the area. The Assam government has vowed to take strict action against those responsible, with officials emphasizing the need to safeguard the democratic process. “We will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt peace or the elections,” a government spokesperson said. “An investigation is underway, and justice will be served.”