Silchar: In a shocking incident in Assam’s Sribhumi district on Monday evening, a local Congress functionary was stabbed by a fellow party member at a restaurant shortly after a review meeting, police and party sources said.

The victim, 35-year-old Jillur Nur, a Congress worker from the Umorpur area, sustained injuries to his hand and chest. He was initially taken to Sribhumi Civil Hospital and later referred to Silchar Medical College and Hospital (SMCH), where he is currently undergoing treatment, officials confirmed.

According to police, the incident occurred around 6:30 PM in the Nilambazar area. The prime suspect in the case has been identified as Shahanaz Hussain, a local Congress leader reportedly aspiring for a party ticket in the upcoming state elections later this year. Authorities said efforts were underway to trace Hussain.

Sribhumi district Congress president Tapash Purkayastha clarified that the stabbing did not take place during the party meeting, contrary to initial reports. “Though it didn’t happen during the meeting, we strongly condemn this incident. We suspect there were personal issues between the two individuals, and necessary action will be taken at the party level,” he said.

Sources from within the party said that after the conclusion of a review meeting attended by senior leaders, some members went to a nearby eatery for snacks. It was during this informal gathering that an altercation between Nur and Hussain escalated, leading to the attack.

A senior police officer stated that the circumstances leading to the assault remain unclear. “Investigators are yet to record statements from the party functionaries who were present at the restaurant. The precise sequence of events and the motive are still being examined,” the officer said.

The incident has raised concerns about intra-party tensions within the Congress ahead of Assam’s state elections. Reports suggest that Hussain and Nur may have had a personal dispute, though police are investigating whether political rivalry played a role.

Local party sources said that while intra-party disagreements are common, they rarely escalate to violence, and the Congress leadership is taking the matter seriously. A team of police officers has been deployed to the area to secure the site, gather evidence, and ensure the safety of other party workers.

No arrests have been made so far, and Hussain is reportedly evading authorities. Police have urged anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.

This stabbing comes amid a tense political atmosphere in Assam, with several parties actively preparing for elections later this year. Senior Congress leaders have called for calm and urged workers to maintain discipline while the investigation proceeds.

Meanwhile, the condition of the injured functionary, Jillur Nur, is reported to be stable, and he is receiving treatment at SMCH. Party officials have assured the family of all necessary support during his recovery.

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