Tensions ran high in Assam’s Baksa district as hundreds of angry residents staged a massive protest outside Banhbari Police Station, condemning alleged police brutality. The protest, which saw widespread participation from men and women alike, erupted after reports surfaced that local police personnel had severely mistreated two youths without valid justification.
Locals Demand Justice, Call for Suspension of Police Officials
Eyewitnesses reported that the demonstrators held placards and chanted slogans, demanding justice for the victims and immediate action against the police officers involved. Protesters accused the police of falsely implicating two young men—Sashin Orang and Sanjib Das—before subjecting them to severe torture.
Placards bearing strong messages such as “Down with Assam Police,” “Suspend Jayanta Das,” and “We demand justice” reflected the rising anger among the local population. The in-charge of Banhbari Police Station, Jayanta Das, was specifically named in the protest, with demands for his immediate suspension over allegations of misconduct.
Allegations of Police Misconduct Spark Public Outrage
According to reports, the entire controversy began when two young men were allegedly stopped by inebriated police officers on the previous night. The officers accused them of reckless overtaking and, without any substantial reason, allegedly subjected them to physical assault and inhumane treatment.
Sources claim that the victims suffered serious injuries due to the excessive force used by the police. Medical reports confirming the extent of their injuries are yet to be made public, but eyewitness accounts suggest that both men required medical attention following the incident.
Local residents, enraged by this act of police excess, quickly mobilized in large numbers to voice their dissent, leading to a dramatic standoff at Banhbari Police Station.
SDPO Arrives to Contain the Escalating Situation
Recognizing the intensity of public anger, the Salbari Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) rushed to the scene in an attempt to assess the situation and restore order. However, the locals remained firm in their demands, insisting that strict action be taken against those responsible for the alleged brutality.
Protesters refused to disperse until an official assurance was given regarding a fair investigation into the matter. The protest continued for hours, creating a tense atmosphere in the area.
Public Reaction and Growing Discontent with Law Enforcement
This incident has further strained public trust in law enforcement in the region. Many residents believe that police excesses have become a growing concern in Assam, and such misuse of power must be checked immediately.
Local organizations and civil rights activists have condemned the alleged police high-handedness, calling for an impartial inquiry into the incident.
A senior activist from the area stated,
“Police officers are meant to protect the public, not harass and abuse them. Such behavior is unacceptable, and we demand justice for the victims. The guilty officers must be held accountable.”
Social media has also seen a surge in discussions regarding the incident, with citizens demanding reforms in police accountability mechanisms.
As the protests continue to make headlines, authorities are under immense pressure to address the allegations and take appropriate action. The Assam Police Department has assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted to determine the validity of the allegations.
Meanwhile, the local administration is working on diffusing tensions and ensuring that such incidents do not reoccur in the future.
The alleged case of police brutality in Baksa’s Banhbari Police Station has ignited widespread public outrage and raised serious concerns regarding law enforcement practices in Assam. With demands for accountability and justice growing louder, the onus is now on authorities to ensure a fair investigation and take strict action against any officers found guilty of misconduct.
The incident also highlights the urgent need for police reforms and greater transparency in law enforcement procedures to rebuild public trust. As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the Assam government and police authorities to see whether justice will be served.