Assam: Tinsukia Farmer's Liberation leader accused of syndicate operations in Digboi refinery

The Digboi IOC (AOD) Contractors’ Association has accused Umanand Mudhai, president of the Tinsukia District Chhatra Mukti Sangram Samiti, of running a syndicate in the supply of construction materials to the Digboi refinery. The association held a press conference on Wednesday, urging Mudhai to cease his alleged involvement in the syndicate.

According to the Contractors’ Association, Mudhai, known for his agitations in Tinsukia district, has been orchestrating a supply chain monopoly by allegedly favoring an outsider with the surname Agarwal for the supply of stones to the refinery. The association claimed that Mudhai had long been involved in syndicate operations in coal, cattle, timber, sand, and stone businesses in the region.

The press conference was attended by Contractors’ Union President Funu Borgohain, General Secretary Utpal Gogoi, and other members including Baba Baruah, Gopal Saikia, and Rajendra Das. Also present was Mathura Das, president of the Digboi Regional Committee of Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad. The speakers highlighted how nearly 300 registered contractors have been struggling due to reduced work opportunities in the refinery and expressed their concerns over Mudhai’s alleged interference.

The situation escalated on Tuesday evening when Mudhai reportedly led a convoy of dumpers carrying large boulders at Ramnagar on National Highway 38, attempting to transport the materials to the refinery. His actions, described as coercive and intimidating by the contractors, led to strong opposition from the association members, ultimately forcing him to send back the stone-laden vehicles.

Following the incident, an FIR was lodged against contractor Rajendra Das at Digboi police station on Tuesday night. Subsequently, the AOC Contractors’ Association also filed an FIR against Umanand Mudhai on Wednesday. The association has warned against further syndicate activities and demanded fair opportunities for local contractors.

Authorities have yet to make an official statement regarding the allegations, and further developments are awaited as investigations progress.