Sribhumi, October 25: A Bihu troupe was allegedly attacked during a cultural programme organised as part of the Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations in Sribhumi district of Assam, triggering widespread reactions across the state. The incident reportedly took place after some people objected to the performance of Assamese songs, allegedly saying, “No Assamese songs in Barak Valley.”
Several performers were injured in the incident. Traditional musical instruments, including drums, were reportedly damaged, while the performers’ costumes were torn and valuables were allegedly taken away. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reacted strongly to the incident and directed the Assam Police chief to take immediate action. According to Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, 13 people have been arrested and forwarded to court.
Dispute During Cultural Programme
The incident reportedly took place on the night of October 24 during a cultural programme organised by Hindustan Club in Sribhumi as part of its Durga Puja celebrations. A Bihu troupe had been invited to perform at the event.
According to reports, some people objected when the performers began presenting Bihu and Assamese songs. The objection reportedly led to an argument, which escalated into a physical assault on members of the troupe.
The incident has brought renewed attention to the safety of cultural performers and the need to respect Assam’s diverse linguistic and cultural traditions.
Traditional Drums Damaged, Costumes Torn
The attack reportedly caused injuries to several members of the Bihu troupe. The assailants allegedly damaged traditional musical instruments, including dhols, tore the performers’ costumes and took away valuables.
Reports have also mentioned the alleged theft of a gold chain belonging to a young performer. The reported damage to the instruments and costumes has raised concerns among those who view Bihu as an important part of Assam’s cultural identity.
Himanta Biswa Sarma Calls Incident Disturbing
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reacted to the incident in a post on X on October 25.
“The news of an attack on a Bihu troupe in Sribhumi is deeply disturbing and unfortunate,” he wrote.
Describing Bihu as the soul, pride and identity of Assam, the Chief Minister said that any insult to the state’s culture and heritage would not be tolerated.
He also directed Assam Director General of Police Harmeet Singh to take immediate action against those involved in the incident.
13 Arrested, Police Investigation Underway
Following the incident, the Assam Police registered a case at Sribhumi Police Station.
DGP Harmeet Singh stated on X that 13 people had been arrested during the investigation and forwarded to court. Police are continuing their investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any other persons involved.
The police statement confirms the arrests and the legal proceedings initiated so far. Further details about the case and subsequent court orders will depend on official updates.
AASU and Other Organisations Condemn Incident
The incident has also drawn reactions from several organisations in Assam.
All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) president Utpal Sarma condemned the attack and expressed concern over the safety of Assamese people in their own state. AASU general secretary Samiran Phukan also criticised the incident and called for action against those responsible.
Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chhatra Parishad (AJYCP) president Palash Changmai demanded the arrest of those involved and strict legal action.
Gunakanta Gogoi, general secretary of Tai Ahom Yuva Parishad Assam, also expressed concern over the incident.
The reactions have added to calls for a fair investigation and appropriate legal action against those found responsible. The specific statements attributed to the organisations should be read alongside their official releases or direct confirmations.
Cultural Respect and Safety of Performers
Bihu is one of Assam’s most recognised cultural traditions and an important expression of the state’s identity. Bihu troupes perform across the state and beyond, helping preserve and promote Assamese folk music, dance and traditions.
The incident in Sribhumi has raised questions about the safety of performers at public cultural events. Disagreements over language or cultural expression should not lead to violence.
A fair investigation and action under the law are important to establish the facts of the incident. Respect for linguistic and cultural diversity is equally important for maintaining peace and harmony between the Barak and Brahmaputra valleys.
The police investigation is continuing, and further official information is awaited.
