‘Secret killings’ gripping Dima Hasao: Ex-MLA seeks CM’s intervention over spike in murders, abductions

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 4, 2025

Former MLA and ex-Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), Samarjit Haflongbar, has raised serious alarm over a rising pattern of what he described as “secret killings” in Dima Hasao district. In a letter to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday, Haflongbar demanded immediate intervention and a high-level probe into a disturbing wave of kidnappings and murders that have plagued the district since 2016.

Haflongbar alleged that 17 civilians have been killed or abducted without any arrests or proper investigations, reflecting a severe breakdown in law enforcement.

“Dima Hasao police administration has failed to stop this trend. The killings have escalated—2025 alone has already witnessed five such cases, the highest in a single year since 2016,” he said.

He provided a timeline of victims, including Jiban Kemprai (2016) – kidnapped and murdered, Diyungmukh PS; Amir Langthasa (2017) – abducted, still missing; Biben Kemprai (2017) – kidnapped, missing, Probanto Hakmaosa (2018) – shot dead, Maibong PS, Mitun Di Bragede (2018) – shot dead, Maibang PS; Santosh Hojai (2020) – abducted and murdered, Harangajao PS and Rakesh Daolagupu and Bhim Bahadur Thapa (2025) – latest victims among 17 individuals.

According to Haflongbar, a powerful syndicate allegedly controls the region’s forest products and market commodities, including river sand and stone.

“All major aspects of public life are under the control of a single group influenced by this syndicate,” he wrote, suggesting that many of the killings may be directly or indirectly linked to disputes over these resources and permit allocations under NCHAC’s jurisdiction.

Haflongbar described the current atmosphere in Dima Hasao as one of fear and lawlessness. “Sections of the hill population feel unsafe. The district’s once-beautiful and peaceful identity is now under threat. Even the tourism sector is suffering, as people no longer feel Dima Hasao is a crime-free zone,” he added.

The former CEM has urged the Chief Minister to order a high-level investigation into the killings and ensure exemplary punishment for those involved, to restore public trust and peace in the region.

“This situation must be contained before it spirals out of control. Without swift and strict action, we risk completely destabilizing the district’s social and economic fabric,” Haflongbar warned.

He concluded with a strong appeal: “Don’t let Dima Hasao turn into a zone of fear. Act now.”