WINDS OF CHANGE IN KARBI ANGLONG

When civilians resisted extremists
FROM A CORRESPONDENT
DIPHU, May 7: Karbi Anglong is witnessing a dramatic change in its social dymics, thereby showing signs of movement towards a prosperous and peaceful future. The source of easy money is drying up for insurgents, forcing them to mint money from poor folks of remote villages. Locals, who are already troubled with poverty, unemployment and scare development in the region, have been fed up with the illicit activities of these insurgents.
Karbi terrorist outfits to include KPLT, UPLA and UPLF have been decimated by the relentless operations by Security Forces. The terrorist groups having been totally annihilated by inexorable operations by Security Forces know well that the days of their existence are over and have started their lost bid resorting to intimidation of local populace in a bid to extract whatever money possible by extortion and causing undue hardship to peace loving citizens.  But now the people have started to stand up against their demands.
In a welcoming event, an incident took place recently on April 26 in a remote village of Metargaon in East Karbi Anglong district, where the locals beat up one extremist and handed him over to the Police. Apparently, the person was a linkman working for an extremist outfit and was attempting extortion from the villagers. This act of opposing their chronic oppression on gun point has come as a major confidence boosting sign for the villagers.  Previously, three such incidents were reported in Rongiongphong, Jinglagso & Cheklangso of Karbi Anglong on 11 Apr, 14 Apr & 18 Apr 2016 respectively.  Also, in Sonitpur there has been a similar incident where in the locals of Sirajuli have on their own overpowered and apprehended one insurgent on 06 Oct 2015.  All these incidents reflect that the local population has been fed up of the gun wielding authority of the terrorist and have now become active and sought retribution.  The same is a positive sign for a healthy democracy.
A very peaceful and successful conduct of Assembly Elections 2016, meaningful and visible infrastructure development projects undertaken by Army in the hinterland and ever present foot prints of the Army has instilled a sense of safety and confidence in the locals.  Despite the unlawfulness of the matter, the courage and willingness that the population of Karbi Anglong have demonstrated is indicative of the rejuveted self confidence of the people and their will to fight with the Security Forces for their betterment and a brighter tomorrow.  There is a fast growing self realization in the population, that the growth, development and peace in the region is only feasible by their being united and standing against such atrocities by the enemies of society.  As the resistance of the people becomes more evident and punitive, the day is not far when Karbi Anglong will be breathing into a peaceful and progressive tomorrow.  The ‘Winds of Change’ are truly visible.