GUWAHATI: Hostilities erupted in Banderdewa, the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border town, following a savage attack on an Assamese fish seller.
The incident, which has sparked alarm regarding inter-state relations, was the result of an alleged machete (dao) attack on the vendor by a local Arunachal Pradesh man after being refused free fish.
The attacker, Phassang Niya (56) from Pallang village in Kurung Kumey District of Arunachal Pradesh, demanded 3 kg of fish free without payment from vendors at Banderdewa Market, said initial reports.
When his demand was denied, he allegedly flashed a machete and assaulted fish vendor Arun Hazarika, leaving him with serious head and facial injuries. The accused also attacked another vendor, Utpal Das, who suffered minor injuries.
After the assault, Arun Hazarika was taken to TRIHMS Hospital, where he is critically injured with a severe head trauma. Utpal Das received first aid for his minor injury. The officials moved quickly, and as a result, Arunachal Pradesh Police arrested the accused instantly.
A case (BDW/PS/C.No. 29/2025 U/S 118(2) BNS) was lodged at Banderdewa Police Station on the complaint of Utpal Das. Police authorities are closely monitoring the situation to avoid further agitation.
The attack has raised concerns of possible communal unrest between people on both sides of the border. The local administration has appealed to people to remain peaceful and not resort to any kind of unnecessary provocation.
The Assam government has also intervened, appealing for restraint and assuring people that justice will be done. Officials assured that the accused is still in custody and legal proceedings are underway.
SP ICR Naharlagun, Mihin Gambo, IPS, has urged people of both states to keep peace and harmony intact, assuring that law and order agencies are working hard to maintain stability.
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