Karbi Anglong violence: Mobile net services restored in Assam districts as situation improves, say Officials — UPSC Current Affairs | December 28, 2025
Karbi Anglong violence: Mobile net services restored in Assam districts as situation improves, say Officials
Mobile internet services were restored in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong on December 28, 2025, following improved law and order after recent violence stemming from land disputes between Karbi and Bihari communities. This situation highlights governance challenges and ethnic tensions relevant to UPSC GS papers.
Overview Mobile internet services in the violence-hit districts of Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong in Assam were restored on Sunday, December 28, 2025 . This decision followed an improvement in the law and order situation. However, strict security vigil continues, with additional security forces deployed in the worst-affected areas. Key Developments Restoration of Internet Services An order issued by Ajay Tewari , Additional Chief Secretary of the Home and Political Department, stated that mobile internet services, which had been suspended on December 23, 2025 , were restored with immediate effect. The order cited improved law and order and the absence of further apprehension of public unrest. Security Measures Continued Vigil: Despite the restoration of internet services, strict security measures remain in place. Deployment: Additional security forces are deployed in the most affected areas to maintain peace. Background of the Conflict The conflict primarily involves the indigenous Karbi community and migrant Bihari communities. The core issue revolves around allegations of encroachment on Village Grazing Reserve (VGR) and Professional Grazing Reserve (PGR) lands in tribal belts by Hindi-speaking people. Recent Violence Casualties: Two persons were killed, and over 170 sustained injuries, mostly security personnel, in recent violence. Protests: Agitators from the Karbi community had been on a 15-day hunger strike, demanding the eviction of alleged illegal settlers. Trigger: The protests escalated on Monday, December 22, 2025 , after police took away three agitators, leading to widespread violence. Government Intervention A tripartite meeting was held on Friday, December 27, 2025 , involving the state government, the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) , and the protesters. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured the agitators that the government would move the Guwahati High Court for an early order on the previous stay on eviction in grazing lands. Legal Measures Section 163 of BNSS continues to be imposed in the area to restrict potential illegal activity. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC syllabus, particularly in the context of GS2 (Governance, Social Justice) and GS3 (Internal Security) . The conflict highlights issues related to ethnic tensions, land rights, and governance in tribal areas. Understanding the dynamics of such conflicts is crucial for Mains answers on social issues and internal security challenges. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the factors contributing to ethnic conflicts in Northeast India, with specific reference to the Karbi Anglong region. Evaluate the role of autonomous councils in managing ethnic relations and land resources in tribal areas. Analyze the impact of land disputes on social harmony and economic development in Assam.