Rangia, June 9: An eatery in Assam’s Rangia town has come under scrutiny following allegations by local residents and Hindu organisations that it was displaying images of Hindu deities and religious sites while allegedly concealing the identity of its ownership.

The controversy centres around Rudramani Dhaba, located at Balagaon in Rangia and reportedly owned by Jainur Ali. According to local residents, the eatery had displayed photographs associated with Hindu religious faith, including images of Maa Kamakhya Temple, inside its premises.

Several local residents and members of Hindu organisations objected to the display of the religious images and also questioned the use of the name “Rudramani Dhaba.” Critics alleged that the establishment was using Hindu religious symbols and imagery while not disclosing the identity of its owners.

Speaking to the media, a local resident claimed that the eatery was operating with photographs of Hindu deities such as Maa Kali and Lord Ganesh displayed within the premises, alleging that these were being used to attract customers.

The situation escalated after Rangia Municipal Board Chairman Amarendra Lahkar reportedly asked the owner to remove the religious photographs from the establishment. According to reports, an argument broke out between the two sides, which later allegedly turned into a physical altercation.

Jainur Ali and several others have been accused of assaulting Amarendra Lahkar along with three other individuals identified as Anjan Bhuyan, Manas Bezbaruah and Pankaj Kalita during the confrontation.

Following the incident, protests erupted in the area, with demonstrators gathering outside Rangia Police Station and demanding the immediate arrest of Jainur Ali. Members of Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and several BJP workers also joined the protest.

Protesters staged demonstrations and blocked roads by burning tyres, causing traffic disruptions and heightened tension in the locality. Police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order and prevent further escalation of the situation.

Authorities are currently investigating the incident, while security remains heightened in the area amid continuing public outrage over the controversy.