GUWAHATI: Assam has recorded an average of more than two murders every day over the past five years, with Guwahati accounting for the highest cumulative number of homicide cases, according to official Assam Police data. The figures highlight the continuing challenge of violent crime across the State, with several districts reporting significant numbers of murder cases and the geographical pattern of such incidents shifting over the years.

Since 2022, Guwahati has registered 277 murder cases, the highest among the districts and urban areas covered by the data. Nagaon and Tinsukia follow closely, with 246 and 245 cases, respectively, during the same period. However, Guwahati’s annual figures indicate a gradual decline in murder cases. The city recorded 74 cases in 2022, which fell to 67 in 2023, 63 in 2024 and 62 in 2025.

Despite the decline in the State capital, other districts continue to report substantial numbers of homicides. In 2025, Nagaon recorded 61 murder cases, while Sonitpur reported 44. At the State level, Assam registered 858 murder cases in 2025, translating into an average of approximately 2.35 murders every day.

The trend has continued into 2026. Assam Police data show that more than 300 murder cases were registered between January and May, maintaining an average of around two cases daily. The geographical distribution of homicides during the first five months of 2026 also points to a shift in crime patterns. Guwahati recorded 11 cases during the period, while Tinsukia reported the highest number at 19. Kamrup district followed with 17 cases.

Police observers suggest that increased surveillance, urban policing initiatives and intensified patrolling may have contributed to the decline in murder cases in Guwahati. However, districts such as Tinsukia, Nagaon and Kamrup continue to report considerable levels of violent crime.

Senior police officials have often attributed a significant proportion of homicide cases in Assam to sudden disputes and personal conflicts rather than organised criminal activities. Domestic disagreements, property-related disputes and altercations allegedly linked to drug or alcohol abuse are among the factors cited.

The figures underline the need for targeted policing, stronger community-level intervention, early resolution of local disputes and sustained vigilance across both urban centres and rural districts. With more than 300 murder cases already recorded in the first five months of 2026, the latest data point to the continuing challenge of preventing violent deaths across Assam.