In a case that has sparked outrage and heightened tensions, Lakhimpur Police arrested seven individuals following the discovery of multiple cattle skulls near a Namghar—a traditional Assamese prayer hall—in the Banderdewa area of Assam’s Lakhimpur district.
Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the arrests on Wednesday. Also, he assured citizens that strict action would be taken against those responsible and urged the public to remain peaceful and avoid communal provocation.
Suspicious Remains Near Sacred Site Raise Alarm
The incident came to light late Tuesday evening when locals found several cattle skulls and bones scattered near the Namghar. The site, considered sacred by the Vaishnavite community, quickly became a flashpoint of concern and outrage.
Local residents alerted police, who cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation. Initial findings suggest that the cattle remains may be linked to illegal slaughter. The police acted swiftly, detaining seven suspects from nearby villages during night raids.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. Forensic teams have collected evidence, and the arrested individuals are being interrogated,” said Lakhimpur SP Rituraj Doley.
CM Sarma Urges Calm and Respect for Sentiments
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to address the issue. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“Deeply disturbed by the recovery of cattle remains near a Namghar in Lakhimpur. Seven people have been arrested. We will not allow anyone to disturb communal harmony in our state. Police investigation is ongoing. I urge citizens to maintain peace.”
The CM further stated that any attempt to disrupt the state’s religious fabric would be dealt with firmly. He directed senior police officers to monitor the case closely and ensure transparency in the probe.
Community Leaders Call for Swift Justice
The incident has drawn reactions from religious leaders and social organisations across Assam. The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) condemned the act and demanded a thorough probe.
“Such acts are meant to provoke religious sentiments and must be punished as per the law. Further, the sanctity of Namghars must be protected,” said AASU general secretary Sankar Jyoti Baruah.
Several Vaishnavite groups have called for peaceful demonstrations and prayers at the Namghar premises. Authorities have tightened security in sensitive zones to prevent any untoward incidents.
Police Investigate Motive and Wider Links
While the motive behind the act remains under investigation, police suspect that the slaughter could be part of a larger illegal trade network. Assam has witnessed a rise in cattle smuggling cases in recent years, particularly near border districts like Dhubri, Lakhimpur, and Karimganj.
“We are probing possible links to cattle smuggling rings operating in Upper Assam. The presence of remains near a religious site appears deliberate and provocative,” said a CID official involved in the case.
Officers are also scanning CCTV footage, collecting witness testimonies. Also, reviewing call records of the accused to build a strong case.
Government to Propose Stricter Cattle Laws
In the wake of the incident, discussions have resumed around enforcing stricter cattle protection laws in Assam. The government may soon bring new amendments to the Assam Cattle Preservation Act to prevent such violations and ensure stricter monitoring of slaughterhouses and animal transport routes.
“We are considering a proposal to introduce geofencing and GPS-based tracking for cattle transport to prevent misuse,” a senior Animal Husbandry official told the media.
Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to cattle slaughter or illegal trade through local helplines. However, to stay updated on government actions and community responses, visit assampolice.gov.in and assam.gov.in.
