Golaghat (Assam), 16 April (HS): A theft at a Namghar (prayer hall) in Dharampur village under Dergaon in Assam’s Golaghat district has sparked widespread anger among locals, police said on Thursday.

According to sources, unidentified miscreants broke into the Namghar located in Dharampur village under Mithamora Mouza during the intervening night and decamped with gold and silver ornaments, cash, and the donation box kept on the Guru Asan.

The incident came to light on Thursday morning when the Namgharia (priest) entered the premises for routine cleaning and found parts of the Manikut door broken. In their search for valuables, the miscreants also damaged sacred Kirtan books kept inside the Namghar.

The Namgharia stated that everything was in order when he had lit the ceremonial lamp on Wednesday evening. The theft is believed to have taken place shortly thereafter, triggering panic in the village, especially as it occurred during the Bihu festivities.

Upon receiving information, Dergaon police reached the spot and initiated an investigation. An FIR has been lodged in connection with the incident and police have assured villagers that the culprits will be apprehended soon.-------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash