The Assam government has announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each for 11 villagers who sustained injuries in a firing incident along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Dhemaji district. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma approved the relief following the violent confrontation reported on August 10, when armed individuals allegedly opened fire on local residents amid a dispute over agricultural land.
State Education Minister and Dhemaji MLA Ranoj Pegu visited the injured villagers at Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh to take stock of their health and review the treatment arrangements. The financial assistance is being provided as immediate support to the affected families, with official cheques scheduled to be handed over to all 11 victims on August 16.
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The injured villagers have been identified as Utpal Doley, Bhaijan Doley, Pame Pegu, Bitupan Doley, Bigeswar Patir, Bishnu Pegu, Lakhi Prasad Lagachu, Rakesh Doley, Sanjay Tayung, Rohit Doley and Rakesh Lagachu.
According to hospital authorities, eight of the injured individuals are currently undergoing specialised treatment at the Super Speciality Block of the Dibrugarh hospital. Hospital Superintendent Dr Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan, along with senior surgical specialists, is overseeing their medical care. Doctors performed surgery on one of the victims on August 14, while another patient suffering from serious eye injuries was scheduled for an operation on August 15. Medical officials said the condition of the patients was stable and that they were recovering.
The incident occurred at Bodoti village under Ming Mang Gaon Panchayat in Dhemaji. According to allegations, the violence began after a dispute concerning alleged encroachment on agricultural land, with armed miscreants from Arunachal Pradesh reportedly firing at farmers. The shooting injured 11 villagers and caused fear among communities living near the interstate boundary.
Following the incident, local groups staged protests seeking stronger security measures for border residents. Chief Minister Sarma also spoke with Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and called for a formal investigation. Khandu assured that an impartial inquiry would be conducted. Both state governments subsequently strengthened security arrangements in sensitive areas to prevent further escalation.
The Assam government has also assured the victims that their medical expenses will be covered and that efforts will be made to ensure legal action against those found responsible. The authorities are continuing to monitor the situation along the border while the investigation into the firing remains underway.
