Political Violence Escalates in Samaguri Ahead of By-Elections, Leaving Multiple Injured

With by-elections just days away, political tensions have boiled over in Assam’s Samaguri constituency, leading to violent clashes, injuries, and even a kidnapping. Independent candidate Musabbir Ali Ahmed became a victim of the rising hostility when he was abducted from his home in Sutarupohi, brutally beaten, and left abandoned in Katimari Gaunt. Ahmed is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.

In another alarming incident, a brawl erupted between Congress and BJP supporters at Bogamukh No. 6, resulting in five Congress members, including a woman, sustaining injuries. The injured were identified as Muktar Hussain, Atabur Rahman, Rafiqul Islam, Abul Kashem, and Rufeda Khatun. BJP vehicles, including a four-wheeler and a scooty, were vandalized, and the Congress office in the area sustained damage during the clash. Congress has accused BJP members of attempting to break into their office, escalating into a physical altercation. Police intervened, conducting night patrols to restore order in the area.

Meanwhile, a separate firing incident further inflamed tensions at a BJP rally in Moriputhikhaity. The rally, led by BJP leaders MLA Jitu Goswami and Suresh Borah, turned chaotic when unidentified assailants opened fire. Several attendees were injured, including Nagaon district BJP leader Ajay Singh, who has since been transferred to Guwahati for advanced medical care.

Local police are investigating the incidents, with senior officials actively working to contain the unrest. As accusations fly between rival parties, the escalating violence is casting a shadow over the November 13 by-elections in Samaguri and four other constituencies—Sidli, Bongaigaon, Dholai, and Behali. The results are expected on November 23, as announced by the Election Commission.