Guwahati: The political landscape in Assam is once again charged with tension as opposition parties, spearheaded by the Congress, issue a formidable warning of a state-wide bandh in protest against the looming implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). Responding to this, Director General of Police (DGP) Gyanendra Pratap Singh delivered a counter-warning, asserting that the financial fallout, estimated at Rs 1,643 crore per day due to the potential agitation, could be recovered from the organisers.
DGP Singh, utilising the microblogging site X, referred to a previous court order, emphasising the responsibility and accountability of those who call for a bandh. He stated, “Reiterating my post of June 2022 about Bandh Calls and responsibility/accountability of those who call for Bandh as directed by Hon’ble Gauhati High Court in WP(C) 7570/2013.”
Expanding on the economic repercussions, the DGP added, “With the GSDP of Assam pegged at INR 5,65,401 Crore, loss from a day’s Bandh would be approximately INR 1643 Crores recoverable from those who call for such a Bandh in accordance with Para 35(9) of the aforementioned order of the Hon’ble Gauhati High Court.”
Despite these warnings, several organisations, prominently the All Assam Students Union (AASU), have declared their intent to stage anti-CAA protests. The opposition parties have, in turn, announced a series of agitations against the controversial act, setting the stage for potential clashes between protestors and authorities.
Anticipating potential unrest, Assam police have proactively mobilised their forces and implemented strategic preparations. Police officials, including DGP Singh, engaged in discussions with Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Incharges of police stations across the state to ensure a coordinated response.
The capital city, Guwahati, which bore the brunt of miscreant-led violence during the 2019 anti-CAA protests, has been transformed into a high-security zone. Later police investigation revealed that miscreants engaged by banned Islamist outfit PFI largely destroyed many government and public properties in the capital city. Guwahati City police, vividly recalling the widespread destruction caused during the previous unrest, have deployed Assam police commandos to secure the capital complex Dispur.
Several battalions and Central paramilitary forces are on standby to swiftly respond to any untoward incidents. The proactive measures underscore the authorities’ determination to maintain law and order in the face of escalating tensions surrounding the CAA implementation. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on Assam, awaiting the unfolding events and the impact they may have on the region and beyond.
