Five low-intensity explosions occurred in Assam on Sunday morning as the state celebrated Republic Day, North East Now reported. Of these, three blasts took place in Dibrugarh district, one in Charaideo district and one in Tinsukia district. There were no reports of casualties.
“I condemn the blasts,” ANI quoted Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal as saying. “It is an act of cowardice. I have directed the police to take stern action against those involved. Peace loving people of Assam deserve a special thanks as due to people’s participation we were able to Republic Day in 33 districts.”
Banned militant outfit United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) claimed responsibility for the explosions in a statement signed by Lieutenant Joy Asom of its publicity department, PTI reported. The organisation had called for a boycott of Republic Day celebrations.
In Dibrugarh, one of the blasts took place at Graham Bazar and another beside a gurdwara on AT Road, both under Dibrugarh police station limits. A third explosion hit the oil town of Duliajan, the police said. The fourth blast took place at Teok Ghat under Sonari police station limits in Charaideo district, while another explosion occurred in the town of Doom Dooma in Tinsukia district.
“We have received the information about the explosion in Dibrugarh,” Assam Director General of Police Bhaskar Jyoti Mahant said after the blast at Graham Bazar, ANI reported. “An investigation has begun.”
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!