Internet Services Suspended in Kokrajhar

The Government of Assam has ordered the suspension of mobile internet and data services in Kokrajhar district with immediate effect following a serious law and order situation triggered by a violent clash between Bodo and Adivasi communities.

According to an official notification issued by the Home and Political Department, the incident occurred on the night of January 19 when a Scorpio vehicle carrying three Bodo youths hit two Adivasi persons at Mansingh Road under Karigaon outpost of Kokrajhar police station. The Bodo youths were allegedly assaulted by local villagers and the vehicle was set on fire.

The incident led to fresh tensions, with members of both communities blocking the National Highway near Karigaon outpost, burning tyres, torching a few houses, setting fire to an office building, and attacking the police outpost. Rapid Action Force has been deployed to control the situation and prevent further escalation.

The government said there is serious apprehension that social media and internet platforms could be misused to spread rumours and inflammatory content, worsening the situation. To maintain public peace and tranquillity, mobile internet and data services of all mobile service providers in Kokrajhar district have been suspended under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017.

However, voice calls and broadband services through fixed telephone lines will continue to function.

The order, issued by Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Tewari, IAS, will remain in force until further notice. Authorities have warned that violation of the order will invite strict action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.

Security forces remain on high alert as efforts continue to restore normalcy in the area.