GMC Officials Held Hostage During Anti-Encroachment Drive in Fancy Bazar

In a shocking incident in the heart of Guwahati, officials of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) were allegedly held hostage during an anti-encroachment drive in the bustling Fancy Bazar area. The incident, which occurred two days ago, has sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns about the safety of government personnel on duty.

According to reports, the GMC had launched a large-scale eviction operation in the MS Road area of Fancy Bazar following complaints from local residents about rampant illegal encroachments on public footpaths. A team of GMC officials, accompanied by support staff, reached the location to clear out unauthorized commercial setups.

During the operation, the team encountered resistance from a woman belonging to the non-Assamese community, who is accused of running an illegal godown behind a temple she had constructed at the front of her residence. Sources said the woman had been allegedly collecting lakhs of rupees from illegal vendors in the area, promising them protection and allowing them to continue occupying the footpaths without fear of eviction.

As the GMC team attempted to inspect the premises, the woman reportedly locked the entrance gate, trapping the municipal officers inside the compound. She, along with a few others, allegedly harassed and obstructed the officials, refusing to allow them to continue with the operation.

The situation escalated quickly, forcing the GMC to seek police assistance. Officers from the Fancy Bazar Police Station arrived at the scene and managed to free the detained official, defusing the tense standoff.

While no formal arrests have been made so far, police officials have confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated into the incident. The GMC is also considering legal action against those involved in obstructing a public servant from discharging official duties.

Residents of the area have voiced strong support for the civic body’s actions and have urged the authorities to take strict action against individuals who use intimidation and illegal means to disrupt enforcement drives.

Also Read: GMC Clears Chandmari Footpaths, Vendors Decry Sudden Eviction