Mob razes shops in Assam’s Dhubri after ‘beef’ is found in temple

Authorities in western Assam’s Dhubri district imposed restrictions in Dhubri town, the district headquarters, on Monday (June 9, 2025) following unrest over “beef” found in a temple complex.

Invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, District Commissioner Dibakar Nath said there was a likelihood of breach of peace and public tranquillity in areas falling under the Dhubri police station due to communal tension and risks of riots and violent protests.

“All shops and market establishments falling within Dhubri town area shall remain closed until further orders. Assembly of five or more persons in public places, streets, and thoroughfares… is strictly prohibited,” the order read.

Announcing the arrest of 16 people for illegal cattle slaughter, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Sunday (June 8, 2025) that cattle body parts were found in five places across the State, including outside the Cotton University in Guwahati and Dhubri town.

Mob on the rampage

The recovery of “beef” from the Hanuman temple in Dhubri’s Ward No. 3 triggered outrage. A mob went on the rampage, demolishing some makeshift shops in the town’s main market.

The recovery of a cattle skin in another part of the market on Monday led to another round of protests, with security forces firing tear gas shells to disperse a mob that attacked some vendors and e-rickshaw drivers.

Meanwhile, the police arrested Ramjan Ali Sheikh, a resident of the district’s Baluchar village, on suspicion of being linked to the “beef” recovered from the temple area. A case was registered against him.

Officials said security forces have been deployed in sensitive zones, and residents have been advised to remain indoors and cooperate with the administration.