NSCN-IM inroads into Dima Hasao

Rebel outfit intensifies extortion drive

SARAT SARMA

Nagaon, July 31 : Increased activity of NSCN (I-M) in Dima Hasao is posing a threat to the district’s law and order situation as the outfit’s cadres are allegedly engaging in rampant extortion there.

According to an intelligence source, the outfit is trying to set up base in the district because of three basic reasons — the ongoing projects in the district, better population structure of the community in that part of Assam and the growing ideological clash between the NSCN (K) and Zeliangrong United Front in neighbouring Manipur.

According to Dima Hasao police, since May this year, eight NSCN (I-M) cadres have been arrested from different parts of the hill district. In two different encounters, one lieutenant-level NSCN (I-M) cadre died and two of his associates were seriously injured.

According to reports, NSCN (I-M) also helps Dimasa National Liberation Front (DNLF) to carry out extortion within the district. The outfit also runs its own extortion racket, specifically targeting outsiders who come to work in different national-level projects such gauge conversion and East-West Corridor, among others.

A police source said the Naga rebel outfit also provided shelter to high-profile DNLF cadre in its Dimapur base.

“The relationship between the two rebel groups is nothing new. The DNLF is being supplied with sophisticated arms from the neighbouring states. Interrogation of arrested cadres brings to light more information about the arms network all throughout the hilly parts of Assam,” a source said.

Migration of militants from neighbouring Manipur and Nagaland is one of the main reasons behind frequent law and order crises in Dima Hasao, where though Dimasas are a majority. Zeme Nagas, Hmars, Kukis and Karbis are also influential communities.

According to available data, six militant outfits, including the DHD, DHD (J), NSCN (I-M), HPC (D), KNF (MC), KLNLF are operating in the district.

“After the 2010 DHD (J) ceasefire, it was assumed that peace would return to the troubled hill belt and people would be free from extortion. But the recent extortion drive by the NSCN (I-M) has proved that to be a bad dream,” said Maibong village resident Gangaram Chetry.

The police source said they were on the lookout for rebels indulging in extortion though no such complaint had been received recently. “But reports about rebel activity are still being received and steps are being taken to check this,” the source added.