FMR scrapped for security reasons: DG AR
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 06 2024:
Director General of Assam Rifles (DGAR), Lt Gen PC Nair, said that the government's decision to annul the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the India-Myanmar border areas is for security reasons.
He made the remark during his interaction with media personnel on the sidelines of a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the 33rd anniversary of Operation Dudhi,' organised by the 7 Assam Rifles, Ghaspani Battalion on Sunday.
Highlighting the rationale behind the decision, Lt Gen PC Nair cited security imperatives as the driving force.
He affirmed, "This is a decision that has been taken by the government, understandably for security reasons," while acknowledging potential opposition from various quarters pending the unveiling of precise details.
Lt Gen PC Nair reassured that apprehensions regarding the scrapping of FMR should be tempered until the finer details emerge.
He emphasised the Assam Rifles' relentless commitment to combat drug trafficking, revealing staggering seizures worth approximately Rs 1500 crore in 2023 and Rs 900 crore till April this year, predominantly comprising narcotics.
Addressing queries regarding the prevailing situation in Manipur, Lt Gen PC Nair noted a decrease in violent incidents but voiced concern over the proliferation of weapons among the populace.
He indicated societal weaponisation and polarised communities as pressing challenges, affirming the Assam Rifles' endeavours to foster reconciliation between conflicting factions through diplomatic channels.
The DGAR also highlighted the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Nagaland two years prior, aiming to nurture talent from remote regions and facilitate higher education in medicine and engineering.
Commemorating Operation Dudhi' as a watershed moment in counter-insurgency operations, Lt Gen PC Nair lauded the valorous actions of Naik Subedar Padam Bahadur Chhetri and his contingent, pledging continued support for the welfare of fallen soldiers' families.
Operation Dudhi, executed in Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir, on May 5,1991, remains a hallmark of success in counter-insurgency endeavours, with 72 terrorists neutralised, 13 apprehended, and a substantial cache of weapons seized.
Subsequently, the DGAR engaged with ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, and their families, along with soldiers involved in the operation, extending gratitude for their contributions towards ensuring its success.