Daijiworld Media Network - Kokrajhar
Kokrajhar, Jan 12: A man accused of raping a mentally unstable woman was injured in a police encounter in Assam’s Kokrajhar district on Sunday evening, police said. The incident occurred amid heightened tension in the district following the alleged sexual assault.
The accused, identified as Rafikul Islam, sustained a bullet injury to his left leg after police opened fire to prevent his escape from custody. Two Kokrajhar police personnel also suffered injuries to their hands and legs during the incident.
According to officials, Rafikul was being escorted to Kokrajhar when he asked the police team to stop, claiming he needed to use the toilet. During the halt, he allegedly snatched a firearm from the escorting personnel and attacked them while attempting to flee, forcing the police to retaliate.
He was first taken to Kokrajhar RNB Civil Hospital and was later shifted to Kokrajhar Medical College for advanced treatment.
The district has remained tense since Saturday after the alleged rape of the woman at a labour camp near Patharughat, under Kokrajhar police station limits, came to light. Rafikul, a labourer by profession, was arrested in connection with the case. Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Chakravarty said a special investigation team has been constituted to probe the incident.
The case triggered widespread outrage, leading to protests across Kokrajhar town and a surge in communal tension. In response, the district unit of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad called for a 12-hour bandh.
Citing concerns over law and order, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders, banning the assembly of more than four persons and public demonstrations in the town. A peace meeting involving police officials, political leaders, social organisations, student bodies and local residents was also held on Sunday.
“The situation is being closely monitored and all necessary precautionary measures have been taken to maintain peace and tranquillity,” DC Chakravarty said, adding that vulnerable areas are being identified and steps are underway to install CCTV cameras and improve street lighting.