Crackdown in Assam: 39 Held for Alleged Pro-Pakistan Stance After Pahalgam Attack

Guwahati:In a strong response to rising national security concerns, Assam Police have arrested 39 individuals for allegedly expressing support for Pakistan following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma confirmed the arrests, highlighting the state’s ongoing crackdown on what he termed "anti-national" activities.The latest two arrests were made in Hojai and South Salmara-Mankachar districts, bringing the total number of detainees to 39 since the Pahalgam incident on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people and left many injured. The victims were primarily tourists visiting the popular hill destination.Taking to social media platform X, Sarma wrote, “Update on crackdown against traitors for defending Pakistan on Indian soil... A total of 39 Anti Nationals put behind bars till now.” The statement reflects the government’s uncompromising stance against individuals allegedly involved in praising Pakistan or justifying the actions of those responsible for the Pahalgam attack.One of the earliest high-profile arrests in this case was that of AIUDF MLA Aminul Islam, who was taken into custody on charges of sedition. He was accused of making statements perceived as sympathetic to Pakistan and critical of India in connection with the attack.At a recent campaign rally ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections, the Chief Minister made his position clear. “If anyone dares to chant 'Pakistan Zindabad' on Indian soil, we will break their legs,” he declared. Sarma also urged the public to pray for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian Army, asserting that all terrorists involved must be hunted down, no matter where they hide.The Pahalgam incident has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for stringent actions against individuals seen as supporting hostile nations. Assam’s decisive action appears aimed at sending a clear message: acts or expressions perceived as seditious or unpatriotic will be dealt with severely.This wave of arrests underscores Assam’s heightened focus on internal security and the zero-tolerance policy being enforced against those suspected of undermining national integrity.