Assam on alert for Puja celebrations
Source: The Sangai Express / TNN

Guwahati, October 02 2011: Assam Police have deployed more than 500 additional security force personnel in the city to ensure a safe Durga Puja celebration.

Though there were no reports of any militant threats for the Pujas till Saturday, intelligence sources alerted police about a possible grenade-lobbying attempt by Manipur-based militant group People's Liberation Army (PLA) .

The revelation came after the operation wing of Assam Police arrested sergeant major N Noren and one Ajit Singh of the PLA along with explosives on Thursday from Dispur area here.

"There are inputs that some PLA ultras might try to dampen the Puja spirit this time by lobbying grenades in some places.

We have been trying to track their blueprint and the arrested rebels have confirmed our suspicion.

The PLA militants are backed by Ulfa," said a top official of the police operation wing.

The operation wing, along with Army, CRPF and intelligence personnel, are continuously combing the city in search of these militants who have been residing in the city with the help of their local linkmen.

At least 20 PLA ultras and linkmen have been arrested from the city recently.

Meanwhile, IGP Assam Police (central western range) G P Singh said adequate measures have been taken and additional forces have been called to ensure a tight security cover during Durga Puja.

"All necessary measures have already been taken.

Some 500 additional security force personnel have been called in for Puja security," said Singh.

Police sources also confirmed that city police have been keeping a close track on all big financial transactions in the city.

The sources added in recent months there are almost 40 such huge monetary transactions have been recorded.

"These transactions are a matter of concern.

Some of them may go towards the purchase of explosives, firearms etc," said the source.

Considering the situation, Durga Puja committees and Dandiya organizers in the city have also beefed up their security measures to avoid any unwanted incidents.

"Apart from hiring private security guards, we have also installed 45 CCTV cameras in the pandal to keep a close and constant watch on the crowd.

We don't want any kind of menace in this festive time.

May god bless us with a peaceful celebration," said Sunil Ajitsaria, secretary of Lions Club (Guwahati) .

Comment