Security tightened across Barak Valley ahead of Independence Day

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

SILCHAR, Aug 10: In view of the threat perception in Assam in general posed by ISIS and the execution of Yakub Menon, security forces have been kept on alert across the three districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi in Barak Valley. This follows intelligence reports that jihadis and extremists in wilderness might strike by creating elbow room during the Independence Day celebration. Though such precautiory measures are a routine affair, tightening of security this time has been given added importance and in the meantime the Union Home Ministry has sounded alert to the state government of Assam.

According to inputs from the three district headquarters, BSF besides increasing patrolling along the intertiol border of Cachar and Karimganj with Bangladesh has adopted close monitoring and surveillance of the movement of people. The District Magistrates of Cachar and Karimganj have imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 along the intertiol border. The movement of people and boats from dusk to dawn has been restricted.

Though there are no reports of any trouble from the Bangladesh side with Sheikh Hasi Government and BGB (Border Guards Bangladesh) extending all possible help and cooperation in maintaining normal situation along the border, the security forces are not going to take any chances. Moreover, the north east militants taking shelter in Bangladesh have been greatly reined in. Along with that the noose on the jihadi groups has also been tightened.

All the interstate check posts and inter district entry and exit points along Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram and Meghalaya have also been brought under tight security. Assam Rifles, CRPF and Assam Police Bn have jointly launched check and search operation at vulnerable points. Movement of passenger and goods vehicles are being strictly monitored. In particular, Jirighat-Jiribam check gates along NH 37 are on alert. Lakhipur sub-division of Cachar bordering Dima Hasao District and Manipur has been brought under security carpet with Assam Rifles, CRPF and Assam Police Bn keeping close watch on the NH 37, once known for the free movement of crimils and extremists. Special branch police in close coordition with the crime wing have undertaken intensive search by pressing into sniffer dogs in and around sensitive establishments and installations of the state and the Centre.

Under surveillance is All India Radio, Doordarshan Kendra as well as Railway stations. Considering the intermittent forays by Bru militants from the jungles of Mizoram indulging in extortions and kidppings for ransom, Hailakandi administration has alerted Assam Rifles and CRPF to check their possible strikes. NH 154 between Dhaleswari to Bhairabi leading to Mizoram is also under watch. All these security measures have been taken up to ensure trouble free Independence Day celebration.