Dibrugarh: A shocking firing incident at Chaulkhowa area in Assam's Dibrugarh on Saturday left one person critically injured and has brought underlying political tensions in the region into sharp focus.
According to initial reports, unidentified miscreants opened fire at Abid Ahmed, who sustained multiple bullet injuries, including a severe injury to his left eye.
He was immediately rushed to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH), where he remains in critical condition.
Police reached the scene promptly and have launched a detailed investigation. However, the motive behind the attack remains unclear, and no arrests have been made so far. Security has been tightened in the area to prevent further escalation.
While authorities are treating the case as a criminal act, local accounts suggest a deeper political backdrop linked to recent electoral tensions.
Residents allege that disputes over voting preferences and party affiliations contributed to the hostility that may have led to the violence.
Sources indicate that earlier confrontations in the locality were triggered by disagreements over political support, with tensions escalating over time into threats, intimidation, and acts of vandalism.
Allegations have also surfaced of repeated attacks on property, including damage to vehicles and looting of valuables, along with claims of threats involving firearms and false criminal implication.
Locals claim such incidents have persisted for months, pointing to a sustained atmosphere of fear and political rivalry in the area.
The incident has raised serious questions about the law enforcement response.
Family members of the victim have expressed dissatisfaction, alleging inadequate police action despite prior complaints and rising tensions.
Concerns over public safety remain high, with reports suggesting continued threats of violence and intimidation against affected families. Some residents reportedly fear for their lives.
Police officials have assured that a thorough probe is underway to identify the attackers and establish the exact motive.
Authorities are also examining whether the incident is directly linked to political rivalry or part of a broader pattern of local disputes.
"Our investigation is at a preliminary stage. Further action will be taken based on statements and findings," said Atul Kumar, Additional SP (Crime), Dibrugarh.