Nagaon: Tension has once again surfaced along the Assam–Nagaland inter-state boundary, this time in Golaghat district, following an alleged confrontation between personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and villagers from the Nagaland side. The incident took place in the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) under the Sarupathar subdivision (Assam–Nagaland Border Tension).
The Trigger: A Petrol Pump in a Disputed Zone
At the heart of the episode lies a petrol pump situated in the border village of Chainpur on the Assam side, adjoining Ralan in Nagaland. The outlet had been constructed nearly two years ago by Naga groups. However, since the structure stands within a disputed stretch marked by overlapping territorial claims, both the Assam and Nagaland administrations had earlier stepped in and ordered it shut.
According to reports, the petrol pump was recently reopened without obtaining clearance either from the Assam government or from the Sarupathar sub-divisional administration. Acting on this development, CRPF personnel reached the site to prevent the reopening. It was then, reports suggest, that they were confronted by a group of villagers.
The Alleged Confrontation
During the face-off, villagers from the Nagaland side allegedly approached the CRPF team carrying sharp weapons, sticks and catapults. Though the security personnel were armed, they were reportedly forced to withdraw from the spot.
The incident has unsettled residents in the border belt. Local organisations have voiced concern, particularly about the safety and security of people living in these sensitive areas where tensions have flared in the past.
Political Reactions
Raju Phukan of the Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) reacted strongly to the development. He described what he termed an “aggressive posture” by Naga groups and referred specifically to the alleged attack on CRPF personnel. He also mentioned the erection of a gate at Chungajan, through which Assamese residents reportedly have to pass.
Criticism has also been directed at the state government as well as Border Development Minister Atul Bora over the manner in which the situation has been handled.
For now, the atmosphere in the border belt remains tense. Security personnel have heightened vigilance in the area. Authorities from both Assam and Nagaland, however, are yet to issue any official statement regarding the incident.
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