STAFF REPORTER
KOKRAJHAR, Jan 11: Normal life came to a standstill in Assam’s Kokrajhar district on Sunday following a bandh called in protest against the alleged rape of a mentally-challenged woman in the Patharghat area.
Markets and commercial establishments remained closed while public transport services were largely suspended in response to the shutdown called by the World Hindu Federation.
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To prevent any escalation of the situation, the administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and deployed additional security forces at sensitive locations.
Officials said the incident occurred on Saturday and the accused, a resident of Dhubri district, has been apprehended.
The district administration appealed to people to maintain calm and not to fall prey to rumours, warning that strict legal action would be taken against those spreading misinformation.
Citizens were also asked to report misleading content to the district control room.
District Commissioner Pankaj Chakravarty and Senior Superintendent of Police Akshat Garg held a peace meeting with representatives of political parties, social organisations, student bodies and prominent citizens to ensure that the law and order situation remains under control.
Chakravarty said the administration was closely monitoring developments and had taken all necessary steps to maintain peace and tranquillity.
He added that a Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the case and ensure justice through due legal process.
The administration has also begun identifying vulnerable areas for the installation of CCTV cameras and street lights.
Appealing for unity and harmony, the district commissioner urged all sections of society to place faith in democratic processes and work together for the development of Kokrajhar, a district known for its diverse communities.
