Communal tensions in Assam’s Dhubri district escalated further as newly crafted idols were vandalised overnight in the Palpara area of Chapar. The incident, discovered early Monday morning, comes on the heels of a controversial episode involving alleged temple desecration with beef in the region.
Artisan Community in Shock
Local artisans, who were preparing for upcoming religious celebrations, expressed deep anguish after finding the idols broken and scattered. The vandalised idols, meant for a local temple, had been under preparation for weeks.
“This is not just about broken clay and paint,” said Ramesh Barman, a renowned idol maker from Palpara. “It’s about faith, livelihood, and peace. Who would do such a thing to something so sacred?”
The idols were reportedly left under a temporary shed with protective covers. According to residents, no guards were deployed overnight. Also, as such incidents had never occurred in the past.
Link to Dhubri Tensions Suspected
This act of desecration follows closely after the Dhubri beef-in-temple controversy, which triggered protests and counter-protests across the district. Although police have yet to confirm any link, locals fear a pattern.
Senior police officials from Dhubri and Chapar rushed to the spot and assured the community of a thorough investigation. “No one will be spared. We are treating this as a deliberate act to disturb communal harmony,” said a senior officer from Dhubri police.
FIR Lodged, Police Begin Probe
An FIR has been lodged by the idol-makers’ community under sections related to religious sentiments and public mischief. CCTV footage from nearby shops and homes is being reviewed.
Assam Police, already on high alert following recent unrest, has called in additional personnel to prevent any flare-ups. Further, apeace committee meeting was held in Chapar later in the day with religious leaders from both communities.
Local Leaders Appeal for Calm
Political leaders and civil society members have condemned the incident. Dhubri MP Badruddin Ajmal called the act “deeply provocative” and appealed for restraint. “Let the police do their work. This is not the time to fan hatred.”
Chapar MLA Rabindra Das visited the vandalised site and offered compensation for the damaged idols. “We will not let miscreants hijack our peace,” he told reporters.
Social Media Flooded with Reactions
The incident has stirred reactions online, with hashtags like #ChaparVandalism and #IdolDesecration trending on X (formerly Twitter). While many users demanded swift justice, others expressed concern over the growing pattern of communal targeting.
Authorities have urged people to refrain from posting inflammatory content or unverified claims that may disrupt the situation further.
A Test of Communal Harmony
The idols vandalised in Palpara Chapar have reopened wounds in a region already simmering with tension. Also. while Assam’s history is filled with instances of religious co-existence, recent months have seen flashpoints that threaten that balance.
This latest act, aimed at one of the most visible symbols of faith, underscores the urgent need for dialogue, justice, and firm action against those looking to divide communities.
For ongoing updates and verified information, follow Assam Police’s official portal and Dhubri district news.
The focus must now shift to restoring trust, supporting affected communities, and preventing further violence. Unity and vigilance may be the only antidotes to the fear creeping into Assam’s social fabric.
