Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Tinsukia: Normal life was disrupted across Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts on Friday as a 48-hour shutdown called by Moran and Motok community organisations came into effect, affecting transport services, business establishments and public movement.
The shutdown, called by the All Moran Students’ Union (AMSU), the All Assam Motok Youth Students’ Association (AAMYSA) and allied organisations, began at 5 am.
Supporters staged protests at Rupai Siding–Kakopathar Tini Aali in Tinsukia district, where tyres were burnt and vehicular movement was briefly blocked, leading to traffic disruptions.
The organisations are protesting the absence of Moran and Motok representatives in the recently expanded Assam Cabinet and the delay in granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the two indigenous communities.
The impact of the bandh was visible across several parts of the two districts, with markets remaining largely shut, public transport services affected and roads witnessing sparse traffic.
Security personnel were deployed at sensitive locations to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.
While emergency and essential services were exempted from the shutdown, the bandh affected routine activities across the region.
The protesting organisations have warned of further agitation if their demands are not addressed.