Assam Rifles has refuted recent media reports surrounding the October 17 incident involving the convoy of Mizoram Power Minister Pu F. Rodingliana, describing the coverage as misleading, malicious, and aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the paramilitary force.
In an official statement, Assam Rifles clarified the sequence of events, stating that the convoy was not deliberately stopped, as suggested by some reports. A Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP) had been set up near Zokhawsang that day based on credible intelligence indicating the possible movement of contraband or war-like stores. According to the statement, the Minister’s vehicle was allowed to pass through the checkpoint by standard procedures. However, the convoy voluntarily stopped at the location where routine inspections were being conducted on civilian vehicles, contradicting claims that the Assam Rifles personnel forcibly halted the convoy.
Alleged Provocation by Minister's Staff
The statement further revealed that the situation was aggravated by the actions of the Minister's staff. Assam Rifles alleged that the Private Secretary to the Minister exited his vehicle, removed his jacket, and verbally abused the personnel on duty. It is also claimed that the Public Secretary forcibly took body cameras from soldiers, and other members of the convoy made disruptive and unpatriotic remarks, including "Go back to India." Assam Rifles stated that videos circulating online show the staff making threats to cut off the paramilitary force's power supply. A power outage affecting Assam Rifles posts across Mizoram that followed the incident is believed to be a deliberate move to obstruct their operations.
False Allegations and Manufactured Confrontation
Assam Rifles rejected allegations that they had obstructed the Minister’s convoy, emphasizing that the convoy was given clear passage. The force contended that a vehicle from the convoy was deliberately positioned to block the road, suggesting that this may have been an attempt to manufacture a confrontation.
Earlier Incident at Kwalbem
The statement also addressed a separate incident on October 12 at Kwalbem, where it was alleged that an intoxicated Assam Rifles soldier had stopped and questioned the Minister. Assam Rifles refuted this accusation, noting that the jawan in question has a 20-year exemplary service record and does not consume alcohol due to religious reasons. The force claimed that the Minister’s convoy had stopped voluntarily at the checkpoint, after which the Minister confronted the soldiers and demanded the dismantling of the checkpoint. When informed that the soldiers were performing their duties, it is alleged that the Minister and his staff began shouting and ordered the abduction of the soldier, who was taken to a nearby village and only released after the local Commander intervened. Assam Rifles stated that this constituted obstruction of a soldier in the discharge of his duties and an attempt to damage the reputation of a dedicated serviceman.
Justification of Assam Rifles’ Operations in Mizoram
Assam Rifles also addressed questions surrounding the legitimacy of its operations in Mizoram due to the absence of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the state. The force stressed that it is mandated to guard the 510-kilometer Indo-Myanmar border and has been tasked with countering the illegal drug trade under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Assam Rifles has conducted over 130 operations in Mizoram this year alone, seizing narcotics worth ₹690 crore. The proximity of Mizoram to international borders makes it a transit route for smuggling, including war-like stores, weapons, and ammunition.
Track Record of Successful Operations
Highlighting its longstanding presence in Mizoram, Assam Rifles noted its history of successful operations maintaining law and order in the region. The force has conducted numerous operations resulting in significant seizures of arms, ammunition, narcotics, and contraband. Despite these efforts, the organization stated that it works professionally to minimize civilian inconvenience and maintain cordial relations with the Mizoram government, civil society, and local communities.
Power Outage Raises Security Concerns
The Assam Rifles’ statement expressed concerns over the power outage that affected its posts across Mizoram following the incident with the Minister's convoy. The force emphasized that the outage jeopardizes operational readiness and poses a security risk in the sensitive border areas.
Appeal for Responsible Reporting
In its closing remarks, Assam Rifles urged the media to report the incident accurately and responsibly, cautioning against the spread of baseless accusations that could harm the reputation of institutions tasked with national security. The force also called on authorities to promptly restore the power supply to its posts in Mizoram to ensure the smooth functioning of its operations.
The response from Assam Rifles highlights their commitment to professionalism and restraint in the face of alleged provocation while countering what it views as a misrepresentation of facts surrounding the incidents involving the Mizoram Power Minister. (PRO AR)