Guwahati, Aug 14: Security arrangements have been strengthened across Assam ahead of Independence Day following a boycott appeal issued by banned militant outfits ULFA-Independent (ULFA-I) and NSCN/GPRN, officials said on Friday.The two organisations have urged people in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Nagaland to stay away from programmes marking Independence Day on August 15.
Officials said the groups have not called for a general shutdown this year, reportedly taking into account the flood situation in Assam.Security agencies have intensified surveillance at official celebration venues, public places, vital installations and other locations considered sensitive. Additional patrols and checking measures have also been put in place.Inter-state border areas are being closely monitored to prevent any suspicious movement and possible attempts to disrupt the celebrations.”We are confident of an incident-free Independence Day,” a senior police official said.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to hoist the national flag at Khanapara field in Guwahati. Ministers and senior officials will oversee programmes at different locations across the state.A high-level security review was held earlier this week under the joint chairmanship of the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police. Senior officials from districts participated in the meeting through videoconference.
The review examined security arrangements, including surveillance of sensitive installations, anti-sabotage checks, intelligence coordination, route security and continuous monitoring of venues where Independence Day functions will be held.Boycott calls issued by insurgent groups during national celebrations have been reported in Assam and other parts of the Northeast in the past. ULFA-I has historically opposed Independence Day observances as part of its demand for a sovereign Assam.
Authorities are relying on coordinated security arrangements and increased vigilance to ensure that Independence Day programmes are conducted peacefully across Assam this year.
