Restaurant demolition follows protest after tea community man’s death

MAKUM, June 17, 2026 — A restaurant in Makum was demolished on Wednesday after protests erupted when a tea community man died following an alleged assault earlier this month.

The Tinsukia district administration carried out the demolition of the “Urban Taste Restaurant” hours after the 45-year-old victim, identified as Mukut Urang of Gangabari Gate Line, succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment at Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh.

The demolition followed sustained public outrage and protests by community groups and students demanding justice, compensation and strict action against those responsible for the assault. 

Restaurant demolition sparks protest

Protests intensified across Makum after Urang’s death was reported early Wednesday. Members of the All Tea Tribes Students’ Association (ATTSA) and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) joined tea community residents in blocking sections of National Highway 37. Demonstrators called for action against the restaurant owner and those accused in the alleged assault. 

ATTSA leaders said they will continue demonstrations until authorities ensure accountability and deliver justice for the victim’s family.

Official action and arrests

Makum Police arrested restaurant proprietor Imran Siddiqui, a resident of Purana Bazar in Borhapjan, following the protests. Siddiqui’s establishment was sealed prior to demolition, and the district administration carried out the removal under security arrangements. 

Police said that during inspections, they recovered banned meat from the premises and reportedly seized a pistol linked to the accused. Cases are being registered and investigations are underway.

Community impact and response

Local residents expressed frustration with the incident and urged law enforcement to speed up the investigation. Leaders from affected organizations stressed the need for strict legal measures and community dialogue to prevent similar incidents. 

Urang’s death and the subsequent demolition highlight continuing concerns about public safety, community relations and accountability in the region. Authorities have promised further updates as the case progresses. 

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