Beyond the Rule of Law, Extra Judicial Killings and Democratic Governance in Assam: A Critical Study of Human Rights and Accountability

This paper examines extrajudicial killings in Assam from a human rights and constitutional perspective focusing on the misuse of police authority, the influence of political power, effectiveness of existing institutional accountability and legal mechanisms. It analyses the constitutional protection of life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution relevant to legal safeguards, judicial decisions and the role of human rights institutions in investigating allegations of unlawful killings. The study adopts a mixed method approach based on primary and secondary sources it includes extra judicial killings related police cases, legal documents, statutory provisions, human rights reports, academic literature and credible newspaper reports. It argues that the legitimacy of law enforcement depends not merely on maintaining public order but also on ensuring that every exercise of state power remains subject to constitutional and legal scrutiny. The study emphasises the need for independent investigations, transparent encounter reporting, victim centred justice, police reforms and accountability or punishment for those officials who found responsible and guilty for unlawful acts. It seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of the challenges involved in protecting human rights and strengthening democratic governance in Assam.