A videoclip of a Naga B. Tech Civil Engineering student studying at Assam’s Kaziranga University in Jorhat making “disrespectful” remarks on the recently deceased Assamese sensational singer Zubeen Garg went viral on social media platforms on Saturday evening, reportedly hurting the sentiments of Assamese students and youth.
The incident sparked tension on the university campus, however the quick intervention from authorities and assurances from both Nagaland and Assam governments have deescalated the situation.
According to a statement released by Hanaru Hostel, the Naga student Lisseri, on his way back to the hostel from Jorhat, was unable to find any transportation and upon reaching the hostel, he expressed his frustration before his roommates regarding the non-availability of vehicles. The statement said the student in question made comments that were considered disrespectful to the late Zubeen Garg, whose recent passing in Singapore has left Assam and the northeast in mourning.
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During the outburst, Lisseri made certain remarks that were perceived as offensive by Assamese students and some students recorded his remarks and circulated the video on social media, which led to widespread resentment among students and individuals outside the university.
Subsequently, a group of students and outsiders reported to have forcibly entered the campus, attempting to create unrest at Hunaru Hostel inside the university premises. The situation, which escalated between 8:30 PM and 1 AM, was brought under control by the intervention of the Superintendent of Police, Additional SP, ADC, Circle Officer, and OIC, Pulibor, Jorhat. No casualties or serious injuries were reported.
The student latter issued a public apology expressing remorse for his actions and sought forgiveness. He also apologised to the fans of late Zubeen Garg.
The matter is presently reported to be under control. As a precautionary measure, additional police personnel have been deployed at the university main gate and hostel premises to prevent any untoward incidents. Students and members of the public have requested the police to initiate strict legal action in this regard.
Meanwhile, addressing a press conference at his residential office on Sunday, Nagaland Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along said he was in constant touch with Assam authorities, including Jorhat MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, Assam Minister Piyush Hazarika, DC and SP of Jorhat, as well as Nagaland officials including DC and SP Mokokchung and the DGP of Nagaland.
“The situation is now quite normal. Lisseri is in a safe house in Jorhat this morning, and all Nagaland students at Kaziranga University are safe,” he stated.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Assam government and university management for their swift response, while also urging students from Nagaland to refrain from putting out anything on social media during such a period of mourning.
“Our boy should not have spoken such words to hurt the sentiments of the people of Assam. I too am a personal fan of Zubeen Garg, who has made not only Assam but also the Northeast and India proud,” Along said.
Along appealed to the students to avoid any “emotional outburst” online and to remain sensitive to the feelings of local communities wherever they are.
“We want to assure the safety and security of our students everywhere. We should also be sensitive to the sentiments of the people around us. I hope no more untoward incidents will happen,” he added.
The Minister further acknowledged both state governments, the management of Kaziranga University, and the Assam student community for ensuring calm. He informed that arrangements were being made for the student to be handed over to his family soon.
