'AR again at service of people'
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, December 30 2012:
Not long back Assam Rifles came to the rescue of two warring villages over a picnic spot located in between Phungyar & Sihai while the situation was simmering and this time again AR ventured into the thick Jungles in proximity to IB i.e.Khongkhan area on 27 Dec 12, after firing shots were heard by villagers of Khongkhan.
In a statement, PRO Assam Rifles said that the Police party being lesser in number & area being believed to be highly frequented by UGs of all hues, AR with the usual gusto rushed out along with police personnel.
In the firing incident, two Tangkhul villagers of Khongkhan (near Kamjong /Chassad) were allegedly shot by insurgents.
The villagers had gone for hunting deep inside the jungles.The incident assumed significance especially in light of the Living Stone issue which has already caused rift between the communities.
The molestation incident had let to bandhs and the counters bandhs.
Consequent to the incident, the AR Bn at Kamjong, Chassad engaged the locals, prominent people and headmen.
All were requested to refrain from violent activities, remain peaceful and true to earlier spirit and traditions of Assam Rifles, harmony was retained.
The Police was extended full assistance by the Assam Rifles to recover the bodies of the deceased.
As a supporting gesture, protection was provided to about eight Valley trader families who are working in Chassad.
Frontal organizations in Ukhrul, the district Administration, Police and Assam Rifles are coordinating efforts for peaceful resolution of the situation.
Investigations are presently on to ascertain the exact cause of the incident.
Assam Rifles continues to maintain calm and peace in the area and coordinate and assist various agencies in resolving the issue as in the past, the Assam Rifles PRO said.
It is pertinent to mention that during the Naga- Kuki ethnic clashes of 90s, Kamjong Chassad was an oasis of peace where the three ethnic groups Nagas, Kukis and Meiteis coexisted peacefully and do so even now.
This role and tradition of the Assam Rifles in maintaining the harmony amongst three communities of the state has once again come to fore in the present incident also.
Any attempt by mischievous elements to disrupt the communal balance will be thwarted by combined efforts of the populace, Government & Assam Rifles, the statement added.