26 Jun. 24: The Citizens’ National Alliance for Peace and Accountability (CNAPA) has strongly condemned the reported ‘fake encounter’ killing of two Muslim men by forest guards in Assam’s Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary. The incident, occurring on June 23, has ignited widespread outrage and demands for an independent investigation.
Local reports indicate that forest guards accused the two men, Rahman Ali (25) and Karim Ahmed (28), of poaching. However, family members and community leaders have refuted these allegations, asserting the men were merely collecting firewood.
In a statement issued on June 24, CNAPA denounced the killings, describing them as “extrajudicial executions under the guise of anti-poaching operations.” They called for an immediate, impartial investigation by an independent body and urged the state government to ensure justice and accountability.
“The narrative from the forest guards raises serious concerns about excessive force and human rights violations,” stated CNAPA spokesperson Riaz Siddiqui.
“Such actions undermine the rule of law and public trust in law enforcement. Authorities must conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.”
Eyewitnesses and local residents have also questioned the official account. “Rahman and Karim were known to us; they were not involved in any illegal activities,” said Junaid Hussain, a local resident. “This is a clear case of targeting innocent people based on their religious identity.”
The incident has exacerbated tensions between the local Muslim community and law enforcement in the region. Various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International India, have expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and demanded swift action to address the community’s grievances.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and assured that justice will be served. “We take such allegations very seriously and will ensure a fair investigation,” Sarma stated in a press conference. “No one is above the law, and any wrongful actions by state officials will be met with appropriate consequences.”
The Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, noted for its rich biodiversity, has been a focal point of anti-poaching efforts. This incident, however, highlights the potential for power misuse and underscores the need for stringent oversight mechanisms to prevent human rights violations under conservation pretexts.
As the investigation proceeds, CNAPA and other civil society organizations pledge to monitor the situation and advocate for justice. The case has reignited debates over extrajudicial killings in India, prompting renewed calls for systemic reforms to protect the rights of marginalized communities.
