HT Correspondent
MARGHERITA, June 16: A gambling game locally known as “Double Guti” has taken hold of various areas under the Margherita Co-District, including Bargolai, Hamukjaan, Ledo, Itakhola, Tirap Colliery, Margherita Chariali, Makum Pathar, and several tea garden regions.
Men, women, and especially the younger generation across these areas have reportedly become addicted to the game, which has led to widespread concern. Alarmingly, a growing number of educated youths from different parts of Margherita have also fallen prey to this illegal gambling activity, lured by the promise of easy and quick money.
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These young individuals, once full of aspirations, now find themselves caught in a dangerous cycle. Hoping to strike it rich, many are investing their time and money day and night into Double Guti — only to face devastating financial losses. This obsession has not only drained their savings but also led to growing incidents of family disputes, unrest, and even domestic violence.
In some extreme cases, individuals have been found gambling away funds meant for essential household needs, resulting in total financial collapse and irreparable damage to their families. The emotional toll has been equally severe, with families left helpless and anxious as their loved ones spiral deeper into addiction.
Speaking on the matter, Pranjal Baraik, Joint Publicity Secretary of the Central Executive Committee of the Assam Tea Tribes Students’ Association (ATTSA), expressed serious concern. “It is very unfortunate that a gambling game like Double Guti has ruined the lives of many youths in the Margherita Co-District area. Even tea garden workers, who earn through hard physical labour, are falling prey to this menace,” he said.
Baraik urged immediate and stringent action from the authorities, including the Margherita Police, Margherita MLA, Co-District Police officials, and district administration. He warned that if prompt steps are not taken to curb the illegal gambling networks operating Double Guti, ATTSA will be compelled to launch a strong agitation in Margherita.
The growing crisis demands urgent attention from law enforcement and community leaders to safeguard the youth and restore social harmony in the region.
