Tension in Assam After Killing of Businessman, Daughter

Guwahati:  Top policemen are camping in Assam’s Tinsukhia amid tension after the killing earlier this week of a businessman and his daughter, both from outside Assam and part of a community that is locally referred to as “Hindi -speaking people”.

This morning, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. He tweeted:



 

Spoke to Assam CM Shri @tarun_gogoi this morning who apprised me of the situation in Tinsukia region post the killing of Hindi speakers

– Rajnath Singh (@BJPRajnathSingh) July 17, 2015

I assured the Assam CM of all possible help from the Centre including additional security forces if needed.

– Rajnath Singh (@BJPRajnathSingh) July 17, 2015

 On Tuesday night,  the house of the businessman, the owner of a rice mill, was attacked by suspected militants of the United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) faction. They opened fire, killing the businessan on the spot. His daughter died in a hospital. Three other family members are seriously injured.On Wednesday, a 12-hour bandh was called by the Bhojpuri Yuva Chatra Parishad, a local organisation that represents the interests of the businessman’s community in Tinsukia.

One person died, allegedly hit by the Assam police in a lathi or cane charge after violent clashes between the protestors and cops. Two people are seriously injured.

“We are investigating the cause of the death,” Assam Director General of Police Khagen Sarma said.

The situation today is tense but there have been no further incidents of violence. The Superintendent of Police of the district has been transferred.