Farmer Attacked While Foiling Tea Theft in Tinsukia

Guwahati: Assam farmer Dhaniram Chetia is recovering in the hospital after a brutal attack. He suffered serious wounds while trying to stop tea leaf thieves at his garden in the Brahmajan area of Pengree. The incident happened near midnight on Sunday.

Chetia confronted a group of thieves while monitoring his crop. One attacker snuck up from behind, striking him with a sharp weapon. He was rushed to St Luke’s Hospital in Chabua. Doctors report he is safe.

Local officials are calling for justice. Digboi MLA Suren Phukan demanded a swift police response to catch the culprits. "I strongly condemn the horrific attack on my brother-like ideal farmer Dhaniram Chetia. I urge the administration to take strict action against all those involved in the incident. I pray for Dhaniram Chetia’s speedy recovery," Phukan said.

The attack highlights a growing problem in the region. Locals note that thieves target gardens at night in the No. 1 Taku Pathar area. These groups regularly clear out tea leaves and target anyone who interferes. Resident Dinesh Oja expressed alarm over the rise in crime. He demanded that authorities identify where these stolen leaves are sold and punish the buyers. Police in Tinsukia are now investigating the assault to identify the suspects.