Karimganj: On September 2, Karimganj witnessed violent clashes as Congress party supporters staged a protest against the installation of smart meters, resulting in significant unrest. The demonstration took place outside the district’s electricity distribution office, with protesters demanding the removal of the smart meters amid growing discontent with the technology.
Tensions escalated quickly, leading to confrontations between the protesters and police. Authorities intervened to disperse the crowd, which led to multiple injuries. In an effort to regain control, the police moved the demonstrators to a nearby forest area.
In a related incident, the Asomiya Yuva Mancha (AYM) launched a provocative protest in Lakhimpur, disposing of smart meter models into the River Ranganadi. This action followed a “Funeral Cortege” demonstration by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), which criticized the smart meters and their impact. The AYM condemned the Assam Government, the Electricity Department, and the ruling BJP, calling for an immediate halt to the smart meter rollouts and demanding the resignation of Power Minister Nandita Garlosa.
Anupam Saikia, central committee secretary of AYM, criticized the smart meters, stating, “These meters are exploiting the common people with their exorbitant bills. The monthly charges are causing severe distress.” Saikia warned of more intense protests if the government did not cease the smart meter installations, suggesting that public frustration is set to rise further.