Guwahati: Communal tensions flared up in many places in Assam during the Eid-ul-Zoha celebrations after reports of cow slaughter near Hindu temples in many districts of the state. This triggered massive protests by the local Hindu community in several districts, including Sribhumi (Badarpur), Dhubri, and Hojai. The state administration has stepped up vigilance following multiple incidents that sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about communal harmony and public order.
Tension erupted in Badarpur
In Sribhumi district’s Badarpur area, communal tension flared up early the morning of June 8 when local people discovered a cow head near a Hanuman temple in a Hindu locality. The incident took place in the nearby neighborhoods of South Bhanga Mashli and Deorail. The remains were discovered first by a devotee who was traveling to the temple at around 7:30 AM. An hour later, there was a sizable crowd that was furious and calling for action. Eyewitness says that the entire incident was planned by miscreants to flare up communal tension between both the communities.
Police forces were deployed in the areas to control further escalation of tension.
In Hojai district 6 Islamists were arrested by police for allegedly throwing beef in public areas in Hindu locality. The incident first occurred on June 7 and was repeated on June 8 night. This sparks widespread protests by local Hindu community.
The police, under pressure from continuous demonstrations by the local Hindu community, acted swiftly to arrest those involved. Security in the area has been beefed up, and a probe is underway to identify if the incidents were pre-planned.
Reacting to the incidents, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a strong statement on Sunday, expressing serious concern over reports of illegal cattle slaughter across the state during Eid.
“While the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, it also requires everyone to uphold the rule of law and public peace,” CM Sarma said, adding that violations in the name of faith cannot be justified.
According to official data shared by the government
- Five cases of cattle remains were reported — in Kamrup Metro (near Cotton University), Dhubri, Hojai, and Sribhumi (Bagargool).
- Five illegal slaughter sites were identified — three in Cachar district (Gumrah, Silchar, and Lakhipur), and two in Karimganj (Badarpur and Banga).
- Sixteen arrests have been made so far — nine from Cachar and seven from Sribhumi.
Administration in action
The Assam government has now intensified monitoring across sensitive districts. Local administrations have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of cattle preservation laws and maintain peaceful festival observances.
CM Sarma reaffirmed the government’s zero tolerance stance on communal provocation, stating, “We will not allow anyone to play with Assam’s harmony and sentiments. The law will take its course irrespective of religion or background.”
As Assam walks a tightrope between law, faith, and communal balance, these incidents have once again highlighted the urgent need for respect, and responsible celebration of religious occasions.
