Baksa (Assam), 15 October (HS): The ongoing protests by fans of late singer Zubeen Garg have taken a violent turn in Baksa district, prompting authorities to impose Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which prohibits assembly of more than five persons.

The situation escalated as protesters clashed with police, setting ablaze three police vehicles and pelting stones at security personnel. Police resorted to lathi charge and used tear gas to disperse the unruly mob.

Amid the chaos, several journalists were reportedly injured. Protesters also torched a satellite news channel’s vehicle near the district jail, where agitators had gathered once again to stage a sit-in demonstration.

In view of the deteriorating situation, the Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been deployed in Baksa. Additional police teams have been dispatched from Guwahati, Nalbari, Barpeta, and Darrang districts. Senior Home Department officials have also rushed to the spot to monitor the situation closely.--------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash