Assam Elections 2026: Arson in Kakopathar during silence period sparks tension

Digboi: Tension prevails in 81 Sadiya Assembly constituency after an alleged incident of arson during the pre-poll silence period in Kakopathar early on Wednesday.

According to reports, unidentified miscreants set fire to a four-wheeler and a granary in the early hours of Wednesday.

Victim Sanjay Gowala, whose four-wheeler and grain storage were destroyed in the fire, said the family has no known enmity with anyone and suspects foul play.

Family members alleged a possible political angle, stating they are supporters of the BJP and had hosted a meeting at their residence on April 7 in support of party candidate Bolin Chetia, shortly before the silence period came into effect.

“We suspect the incident may be linked to the meeting held at our residence. Nothing had happened earlier,” a family member said.

Reacting to the incident, Jagadish Bhuyan, former AGP minister and the AJP candidate from Sadiya, said the election process in the constituency has otherwise been peaceful. “If such an incident has taken place, the culprits must be given strict punishment,” he said.

The incident, reported during the silence period ahead of polling on April 9, has raised concerns over law and order in the constituency.

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation. Officials said no political link has been established so far.

Security has been tightened in the area, with authorities urging residents to maintain calm.