Guwahati, 28 October (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday reacted strongly to the ongoing crackdown against members of the Bir Lachit Sena, stating that individuals using the ‘Assam’ surname have been creating unrest across the state.

The Chief Minister said that the organisation has been collecting money from Sadiya to Dhubri in the name of public contributions and that several suspicious individuals have been using the Assam surname for illegal activities. “The government will act strictly against this organisation,” Dr. Sarma said, adding that all cases related to Bir Lachit Sena will be thoroughly investigated.

He further informed that necessary directives have been issued to all district Superintendents of Police in this regard.

It may be mentioned that eight members of Bir Lachit Sena were recently arrested for allegedly kidnapping a businessman and demanding ransom. Following the arrests, the group’s leader, Rantu Panifukan, had organised a press conference at a hotel in Guwahati to clarify the matter, but was taken into custody mid-event.

According to reports, Rantu Panifukan has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the abduction case, while the organisation’s chief secretary has also been detained.

In response, administrative secretary Shrinkhal Chaliha has strongly condemned the arrests, warning of widespread protests across Assam. Chaliha declared that Bir Lachit Sena would launch state-wide demonstrations against the government’s decision.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash