Following a dispute triggered by banned meat found near a temple, the chief minister issues a shoot-at-sight directive, causing panic in the region
DHUBRI — The Muslim community in Dhubri is gripped by anxiety and fear after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s controversial ‘shoot-at-sight’ order issued in the wake of violent clashes linked to the discovery of banned animal meat near a temple. The incident, which occurred the day after Eid-Al-Azha, has further deepened communal tensions in the region, with many Muslims fearing disproportionate action and wrongful victimisation.
The trouble began when a piece of meat, alleged to be from a banned animal, was found outside the Hanuman temple on 8 June. This discovery triggered a clash between local groups, which quickly escalated into violence, leading to the deployment of a heavy police presence in the area.
The Muslim Students Union of Assam (MUSA), a prominent body representing Muslim youth in the state, strongly condemned the shoot-at-sight order, accusing Chief Minister Sarma of targeting the Muslim community unfairly. MUSA chief Ashiq Rabbani expressed serious concerns about the possible misuse of such a harsh directive.
Ashiq Rabbani said, “This decision by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is wrong and unjust. Dhubri is home to many good and peaceful people, not just those involved in wrongdoing.”
He added, “It appears the chief minister is deliberately plotting against Muslims in Assam, and we strongly condemn this attempt to criminalise an entire community.”
The government has arrested 60 people so far in connection with the unrest. Police detained 38 individuals early Saturday (14 June), in addition to 22 arrested earlier, all charged under non-bailable sections related to communal violence and possession of banned meat.
Chief Minister Sarma has maintained a firm stance, asserting that law and order must be restored at all costs. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I visited Dhubri myself and ordered shoot-at-sight for anyone causing disturbances at night. Whoever disturbs peace will face the strictest action.”
However, this hardline approach has caused worry among residents, especially Muslims. Ashraf Ali, a local Muslim, voiced conflicting feelings, stating, “The order to shoot those causing trouble may be necessary to control traitors. But what if an innocent person is shot by mistake? That would be a tragedy.”
The chief minister claimed the carcass found was of a cow’s head, allegedly placed deliberately outside the Hanuman temple.
He said, “Representatives from both communities met soon after, and a peace committee was formed. It appeared the issue was settled.” However, tensions reignited, leading to further arrests and stricter police action.
Many Muslims in Dhubri question the narrative and suspect the incident was used as a pretext to crack down on their community, especially after the sudden imposition of the shoot-at-sight order.
Residents and Muslim leaders say the shoot-at-sight order has caused widespread panic. Many fear that innocent people could be harmed in the confusion, and the community feels increasingly vulnerable under the heavy police presence.
MUSA’s Ashiq Rabbani warned, “This kind of order can lead to tragic mistakes. Innocent Muslims living peacefully in Dhubri now fear for their safety. The government should focus on justice, not intimidation.”
Observers say it is important for authorities to ensure that law enforcement does not unfairly target any community and that peace is restored through dialogue and respect for all citizens’ rights.
Ashraf Ali summarised the feelings of many local Muslims: “We want peace and harmony. But we also want fairness. If the government is serious about peace, they must listen to our fears and ensure no innocent person suffers.”
