The Assam government on Tuesday suspended mobile internet services in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts following heightened unrest and violent clashes linked to a land dispute in the hill districts, officials said.
The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation through social media platforms. An official notification issued by the state Home and Political Department said the suspension would remain in force until further orders. Voice calls and fixed-line broadband services, however, have been allowed to continue.
Tension escalated after protests over alleged encroachment on land protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, including Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) areas. Demonstrations reportedly turned violent in parts of the districts, prompting police intervention.
According to officials, clashes between groups of protesters led to injuries, following which security forces resorted to lathi-charge and the use of tear gas to disperse the crowds. Additional police and security personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation.
District administrations have also imposed prohibitory orders in several locations, restricting large gatherings and movement. Senior police officials are monitoring the situation closely and holding talks with community leaders to restore calm.
Authorities said the internet shutdown was necessary to curb the circulation of inflammatory content that could worsen the situation. Normal services will be restored once conditions improve, officials added.
The unrest highlights ongoing challenges surrounding land rights and governance in Assam’s autonomous hill districts, where disputes over protected land have periodically triggered protests and tensions.
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