Two o Muslim men have been killed by forest guards in Assam’s Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary on June 23, igniting widespread outrage and demands for an independent investigation.
Local reports indicate that forest guards accused the men, Rahman Ali, 25, and Karim Ahmed, 28, of poaching within the sanctuary, however, family members and community leaders vehemently deny these allegations, insisting that the men were merely villagers gathering firewood.
In a statement released on June 24, CNAPA denounced the killings, calling them “extrajudicial executions masked as anti-poaching operations.” The organization has urged for a prompt and impartial investigation by an independent body, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for the victims’ families.
“The forest guards’ account raises significant concerns about the use of excessive force and the violation of basic human rights,” said CNAPA spokesperson Riaz Siddiqui. “Such actions damage the rule of law and erode public trust in law enforcement agencies. A thorough and transparent investigation is essential to uncover the truth and ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
Eyewitnesses and local residents have expressed skepticism about the official narrative. “Rahman and Karim were known to us and were not involved in any illegal activities,” stated Junaid Hussain, a resident of a nearby village. “This appears to be a case of targeting innocent people based on their religious identity.”
The incident has exacerbated tensions between the local Muslim community and law enforcement agencies. Several human rights organizations, including Amnesty International India, have shown solidarity with the victims’ families and called for swift action to address the community’s grievances.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and assured the public that justice will be served. “We take these allegations very seriously and will ensure a fair investigation,” Sarma stated during a press conference. “No one is above the law, and any wrongful actions by state officials will face appropriate consequences.”
The Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its rich biodiversity, has been a center of anti-poaching efforts in recent years. However, this incident highlights the potential for power abuse and underscores the need for stringent oversight mechanisms to prevent human rights violations under the guise of conservation.