IT News
Imphal, May 4:
Assam Rifles issued a rebuttal to allegations of harassment by local timber transporters, emphasizing compliance with regulations and their commitment to upholding directives from the Central and State government regarding border security and cross-border trade. In response to allegations of harassment by local timber transporters, the Assam Rifles issued a rebuttal addressing concerns raised in an article published by the Imphal Times on May 2, 2024. The article highlighted grievances from the Moirengthel Trade Hub and Development Committee regarding alleged actions of an Assam Rifles officer stationed at the Shaibol Outpost. The Assam Rifles emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations, citing the Manipur State government’s letter ordering the suspension of Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the recommendations of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) regarding the suspension of FMR to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The statement reiterated that any movement of goods, including timber, across the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) without FMR is deemed illegal, underscoring the security force’s commitment to upholding directives while facilitating smooth operations within the framework of prevailing regulations.
Assam Rifles’ response aimed to clarify its role in border security and its commitment to ensuring the orderly conduct of cross-border trade and transportation. While empathizing with the concerns raised, the statement sought to reinforce the importance of complying with regulations to prevent illicit activities, such as the unauthorized transportation of timber. The Assam Rifles emphasized its responsibility as a security force mandated to uphold directives from the Central and State government, signaling its intention to facilitate lawful operations while discouraging activities that contravene established protocols governing cross-border trade.