KOKRAJHAR : A high-level peace meeting was held on January 21 at the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Assembly Auditorium in Kokrajhar to review the recent outbreak of violence in the district and assess the prevailing law and order situation.

The meeting was chaired by Assam Cabinet Minister Jayanta Malla Barua and attended by Cabinet Minister Charan Boro, BTC Chief Executive Member Hagrama Mohilary, local MLA Lawrence Islary, along with representatives of student bodies and social organisations.

Participants appealed to residents to maintain peace and communal harmony, urging all sections of society to refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions. Emphasis was laid on unity and cooperation to help restore normalcy in the district.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Barua said the situation in Kokrajhar was currently under control. “Due to some misunderstanding, an unfortunate situation erupted. The Chief Minister is closely monitoring all developments,” he said, adding that he would personally visit the families of those who lost their lives in the incident.

Barua also said security arrangements across the district had been strengthened to ensure law and order. Authorities, meanwhile, urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the administration.

According to officials, the unrest began on January 19 following a violent clash between two groups, which resulted in the death of a youth and triggered protests in several parts of the district.

Police identified the deceased as Sunil Murmu and Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit. Officials said Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit was killed during the initial clash, while Sunil Murmu sustained injuries during the protests that followed and later succumbed.

Tensions escalated as protests turned violent, leading to incidents of arson, road blockades and clashes with security personnel. Police resorted to baton charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd, during which several people, including security personnel, were injured.