Imphal, June 14: Newly appointed Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) Major General AK Choudhury has stated that the para-military forces would help in protecting the villagers of Heirok in Thoubal district from any possible harm likely to be caused on them by two prominent underground organisations.

The assurance of the IGAR (S) has come about in the backdrop of the announcement jointly made by the proscribed UNLF and KYKL of awarding capital punishment to five villagers of Heirok who allegedly played key role on recruitment of SPOs.

In a joint statement, two outfits declared that all those including Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh who have been conspiring to wage a civil war in the land by creating SPOs are enemies of the liberation movement.

The two outfits have also put a ban on Heirok villagers from venturing outside their place for allegedly defying earlier warnings not to join in recruitment of SPOs.

Talking to mediapersons for the first time after assuming the office of IGAR (S) few days ago at Mantripukhri here today, Major General AK Choudhury observed that when the Heirok public want to protect themselves from any excessive forces and when they have come under threats, the Assam Rifles should help them.

The army and the State security forces should also ultimately help these villagers, he added.

'All of us should together help the Heirok people in protecting themselves,' said the Major General who commands troops deployed in Imphal, Chandel Thoubal, Senapati and Ukhrul district.

On being asked if he has any new strategy to fight insurgency in Manipur, the Major General said that his troops would deal insurgency with all professionalism to bring about security to the people and to achieve peace and prosperity in the State.

'At the same time, we will also give proper reply to any offensive from rebels and we will not touch any innocent people in any counter insurgency operations', he assured.

The AR officer, however, refused to comment on a query pertaining to Chief Minister of Ibobi Singh's repeated remarks that the Centre may reimposed the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act in Imphal Municipality area if the rebels continue to carry out subversive activities.

He simply maintained that depend will depend on the decision or wisdom of the Government.

Commenting on ongoing Suspension of Operation (SoO) between Kuki underground outfits and the Army and the AR, the Major General said that the degree of violence has considerably reduced since the pact was signed though they (Kuki UG groups) continue to indulge in extortions.

'Why such extortions should be allowed ? We have been making all out efforts in foiling it', he said, while lauding the State Government's move to hold peace dialogue with these organisations.

Taking note of the fact that the media in Manipur has been facing a tough task in the prevailing conflict situation, the Major General complimented the journalists in Manipur for working efficiently.