Assam CM Accuses Bir Lachit Sena of Extortion Activities

Allegations Against Bir Lachit Sena

Guwahati, Oct 28: On Tuesday, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma leveled serious accusations against the Bir Lachit Sena, claiming the group is running a widespread extortion racket throughout the state.

During a press interaction at an event in Kaliabor, Sarma stated that the organization has been threatening individuals and soliciting money from various businesses across Assam.

“The Bir Lachit Sena is extorting money from Sadiya to Dhubri, creating unrest among the populace,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister has directed the Superintendent of Police to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the group's operations.

“If they persist in hindering Assam's economic development, we will take stringent measures, including a potential ban,” he emphasized.

It is noteworthy that Sarma had convened a video conference with Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) statewide to assess the law and order situation the previous night.

Additionally, Sarma voiced his concerns regarding individuals exploiting the Assamese identity for personal or political motives.

“Certain dubious individuals have appended ‘Axom’ to their names, misleading and negatively influencing the community, particularly in Lower Assam,” he stated.

These remarks followed the detention of Rantu Paniphukan, the Chief Secretary of Bir Lachit Sena, by Dispur Police during a press conference at a hotel in Guwahati. He was arrested mid-event.

The press conference aimed to counter allegations against the organization after eight individuals were arrested in connection with a kidnapping case reportedly tied to Bir Lachit Sena.

The suspects have been identified as Biswajit Doley, Injamul Huque, Rohan Ali, Mohan Borah, Nitu Ahmed, Chinmay Dev, Riyaj Ahmed, and Biraj Ballav Kalita.

Earlier on Monday, Sarma expressed his government's profound dissatisfaction with the controversial group's actions, warning that failure to rectify their behavior could lead to a ban in the state.