SONITPUR: On Saturday, security forces uncovered a concealed stash of explosives in a forested region of Sonitpur district, Assam. Authorities have ramped up security measures across the state in preparation for the 76th Republic Day celebrations, according to the police. Police discovered a polythene bag containing explosives, including 36 grenades and three detonators, during a search operation.
The Sonitpur Police stated in a post on X, "On 25/1/2025, acting on reliable information about the secret storage of illegal arms and ammunition buried underground in the jungle area near Khwbra village, Batashipur under Dhekiajuli Police Station, a search operation was conducted."
The police said, "One of the grenades had a damaged pin/lever, so it has been kept in a secured area under guard." They also added that the bomb disposal squad of the army is being contacted to dispose of the explosives. Police officials have stated that security measures have been strengthened across Assam to ensure peaceful Republic Day celebrations.
Ongoing vehicle inspections and surveillance operations are being carried out. Officials stated that railway authorities, in collaboration with district police and the railway protection force, are conducting thorough inspections of trains, tracks, bridges, and passengers' belongings. Waterways, including those in Guwahati, are being closely monitored.
Enhanced security protocols have been implemented at Republic Day event locations, where Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya will hoist the national flag in Guwahati on Sunday. The tricolour will be hoisted by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Dibrugarh, while cabinet members and senior officials will take part in celebrations at different locations.
Last year, the state police faced embarrassment when ULFA(I) claimed to have planted explosives at 24 sites across Assam for Independence Day attacks. Subsequently, police found suspicious objects resembling explosives at ten locations, including four in Guwahati.
ULFA(I) and NSCN/GPRN have declared a "total strike" from midnight until 6 pm on Sunday, urging citizens of Assam, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh to refrain from participating in Republic Day celebrations.
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