Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday issued shoot-at-sight orders in Dhubri district after communal tensions escalated over the alleged desecration of a temple during Eid celebrations.

The unrest reportedly began when cow meat was found near the Hanuman Mandir in Dhubri, sparking protests and clashes. Security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowd, and prohibitory measures under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were imposed, including a ban on public gatherings and closure of shops.

In a post on social media platform X, Sarma said, “A particular group has become active in Dhubri with the intention of damaging our temples. We have issued shoot-at-sight orders.”

The Chief Minister visited the area to assess the law and order situation and assured the public of strict action against the perpetrators. “No one needs to live in fear. The government will not tolerate any act of desecration against temples, Naamghars, or other sacred sites,” he said. He further added, “If required, I will personally guard the Hanuman temple on the next Eid.”

Dhubri Deputy Commissioner Dibakar Nath confirmed that the situation has now been brought under control. “Shops and markets have reopened, and we have withdrawn the prohibitory orders,” he told PTI.

To maintain peace and prevent further escalation, peace committees consisting of members from both Hindu and Muslim communities have been formed in sensitive areas. No fresh incidents have been reported since Monday, when miscreants allegedly targeted local vendors and rickshaw pullers. Police intervened promptly to restore order.