Arunachal Pradesh Timeline 2017

January 3

AR arrested a Myanmar-trained NSCN-R militant, identified as 'self-styled corporal' Pingwang Kanglom in Changlang town in Changlang District. The militant had been involved in extortion activities in the District, sources in the paramilitary force said. A pistol and five rounds of live ammunition were recovered from him.

In a statement, the NSCN-IM strongly objected to India's decision to fence the borders between Myanmar and Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. In the statement, NSCN-IM said that such 'artificial boundary fencing imposed upon the Naga people' was against the will of the people and was gross violation of human rights. Other Naga groups like, NNC and ENDO were also against the fencing.

One militant of NSCN-IM, identified as self styled 'corporal' Phawang Wangsu was arrested by AR at Niausa village in Longding District. One pistol, live ammunition and opium was recovered from the arrested militant.

According to the security sources the militant groups having bases in Myanmar have started using different routes of Arunachal Pradesh-Myanmar border to enter into the North East region. Earlier, Nagaland-Myanmar border was considered to be the most vulnerable. Sources said that though some militants are still sneaking to the country through Nagaland, most such infiltrations are taking place through Arunachal Pradesh which is considered to be a peaceful state. Security sources said that most such movements were taking place through the Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh. The Arunachal Pradesh CM also held a high level meeting with senior officers of the Army and paramilitary forces last month to discuss the situation.

SFs intensified their combing operations in the border areas of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and busted a militant hideout at Samru area in the State. SFs intensification of operations follows the militant attack at Jagun in Tinsukia District of Assam on January 22.

Security officials said that Indo-Myanmar border has been placed at a state of alert based on specific intelligence inputs about the militants exfiltrating into Myanmar to escape the ongoing operations by SFs. "The stretch of the border from pillar number 168 to border pillar number 173 - from Pangsau Pass to Tirap River - has been put on high alert," a source said.

An unidentified militant belonging to the NSCN-K was killed and another injured during an exchange of fire with the AR at Ozakho village in Longding District.

AR arrested a militant of NSCN-R, identified as Kamsing Ngemu, from Miao town in Changlang District. According to the sources the arrested militant was involved in several extortion cases in Miao town in the name of 'SS Captain Jimmy'.

In some declassified reports of CIA of the United States of America, it was revealed that the North Eastern militant groups had been receiving Chinese assistance in terms of arms and training since 1960s. The CIA report was submitted on July 26, 1968 and from the report it is evident that the militant groups of the Northeast were receiving help from China even during that time. The report said that the Naga militants first established contacts with China in December, 1966. The report revealed that the first batch of approximately 200 militants crossed over to Northern Burma (now Myanmar) to obtain arms training in Yunnan.

In a statement the ANSF accused the State Government of ignoring the safety and security of the people of insurgency-affected Tirap, Changlang and Longding District. ANSF mentioned about the activities of the NSCN-K and NSCN-IM in their statement. They further urged the UHM and Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju to intervene in the matter and take appropriate measures to stop skirmishes and bring back peace and normalcy in the area.

AR arrested a linkman identified as Alan Rai, who worked for both ULFA-I and NSCN-K, at Old Khamdo village in Changlang District. According to the AR source, the arrested linkman was involved in extortion cases and blank letters bearing names of ULFA-I and NSCN-K were recovered from his possession. During the interrogation, the linkman also revealed that he was helping these two militant groups for four years and had regular contact with the ''sergeant'' Rupam Asom of ULFA-I.

Protesters belonging to the DHDC and the DDJAC, along with seven other organisations, who were demanding for making Likabali as headquarter of Lower Siang District, set ablaze the office of the SDO (civil) at Likabali. It was the second day of the 96-hour general strike of the protesting organisations.

AR jawans arrested a NSCN-IM cadre from Khonsa town in Tirap District during an operation. The cadre was reportedly carrying out extortion activities in the District headquarters town. He was found in possession of a loaded pistol, contraband and slips indicating collection of money, official source said.

AR troopers arrested a NSCN-K militant, Pansai Pansa, from Wakka village in Longding District. One pistol, five live rounds of ammunition and four mobile phones were recovered.

AR arrested NSCN-R cadre, Ranapio Sampit, at Kharsang in Changlang District.

AR troopers arrested a NSCN-K cadre, identified as Machow Ngaimong, from Mulong village in Changlang District.

AR troopers arrested a NSCN-IM cadre, 'lance corporal' Akha Wangsu, from Longding village in Longding District. A pistol, five rounds of A-K series rifles, two rounds of ammunition and opium were recovered from his possession.

AR killed one militant of NSCN-K, identified as Wahang Sumyen, at Lyangche village in Tirap District. A pistol and other war-like stores were also recovered from the killed militant.

The Central Government of India clarified that it has not signed any final accord with the NSCN-IM though a framework agreement has been sealed. The issue figured at a meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on UMHA, which was chaired by former Home Minister P Chidambaram. Officials of the Home Ministry, briefing the members of the Committee, gave a broad account of the framework agreement, which has been kept under tight wraps. The 'Framework Agreement' between the Centre and the NSCN-IM was signed on August 3, 2015. Home Ministry officials explained that a final accord has not been signed as the Centre proposed to take along all Naga groups and the concerned State Governments of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

One militant of NSCN-R, identified as Wangdi Tailong, was arrested by AR during an operation at Jungmaisung in Changlang District. A Pistol and live ammunition was also recovered from the arrested militant.

AR busted an abandoned hideout of NSCN-K at Nogna village in Tirap District.

AR arrested three militants from different places in two separate incidents. In the first incident, AR arrested two militants of NSCN-R, identified as 'captain' Kampong and 'revenue secretary (industries)' Longkam Tunghang in Changlang District. In the second incident, AR arrested one militant from NSCN-U, identified as 'captain' Khampai Wangsu in Longding District.

Police arrested three militants of NSCN-K, identified as Dagar Perme (30), Obang Lego (36) and Bobel Lego (32), after an encounter at Kalapani area of Dambuk in Lower Dibang Valley District. One automatic German made HK 33 Rifle along with one loaded magazine and 25 live rounds of AK 47 was recovered from the arrested militants. All these three militants were involved in several extortion cases.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the security situation in the Northeastern States of India and directed officials to enhance vigil along the international borders in the region. During the hour long meeting, the Home Minister was given a detailed presentation on the prevailing situation in the Northeast, especially militancy in the region. Singh was also told about the steps taken to ensure peace, especially in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Manipur, the four states considered to be affected by insurgency, official sources added.

The MoS for Home Affairs clarified that surrendered militants without any criminal cases pending against them can contest in elections. Kiren Rijiju on the issue further informed that at least 15,314 militants have surrendered under the surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy for the northeastern region. Altogether, 235 individuals are still undergoing rehabilitation under the Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme as of financial year 2016-17.

The UHM clarified that there was no decision to carve out Nagalim from areas of states bordering Nagaland. The statement comes after demands from several organisations and political parties in Assam and Manipur that the Centre clarify its position on the claim of the 'general secretary' of NSCN-IM, Thuingaleng Muivah, over the issue of integration of Naga areas. "Some media reports have appeared recently to the effect that the Government of India has agreed to carve out a larger Nagaland State by taking away the territories of the states contiguous to Nagaland. Such reports are erroneous. It is clarified that there is no such agreement or decision of the Government of India," said the UHM statement.

The AAPSU termed the comments of NSCN-IM 'general secretary' Th Muivah on integration of Naga-inhabited areas as 'disturbing.' The apex students' body of the State stated that the people would not accept any solution at their cost and that of the land of the state.

AR arrested a NSCN-K cadre, Wanghu Rangshong, from Laju village in Tirap District.

In a fresh attempt to nudge Myanmar to launch a flush out operation against the militants of the Northeast, India reduced the allotment to its Aid to Myanmar programme significantly and allocated INR 225 crore only this Year (2017-18). In the previous year, (i.e. in 2016-17) India sanctioned INR 400 crore to Myanmar but the indifferent attitude of Myanmar over the issue of Northeastern militant groups disappointed India and this time India has clearly shown its displeasure over the issue, claims the report.

AR arrested one NSCN-IM militant, identified as 'corporal' Pangchak Arangham, from Rangluwa village in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Authoritative security sources in the Union Home Ministry claimed that China has roped in militant groups of North East to launch a proxy war against India. The source further claimed that the recent statement of ULFA-I, on March 28, against the visit of Dalai Lama in Assam was dictated by China. Also, asserting that China was not interested in organizational strength of ULFA-I, the security sources said that China intends to intensify its proxy war against India in the North East through the separatist groups.

SFs arrested a militant of the NSCN-K, 'second lieutenant' Kijen Rongshong, from Lazu village of Tirap District. The arrested militant was allegedly involved in an attack on SF and also involved in extortion activities, according to an Army release.

Replying to a question by MP Krupal Balaji Tumane, Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir revealed that insurgent activities in the Northeast along the Indo-Myanmar border saw an increase compared to the Indo-Bangladesh border in the last three years. According to the report, during the period from 2015 to March 31, 2017, terror activities along Indo-Myanmar border increased alarmingly in view of insurgents groups shifting their bases from Bangladesh to territories within Myanmar and China. According to the Minister, during this period, 10 encounters took place in three North Eastern States - Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Even though no casualties were reported in these encounters, a total of 11 suspected rebels were arrested. In Assam along the Indo-Bangla border, three encounters were reported and four militants arrested in 2015. No such incident was however reported in Assam along the Indo-Bangla border in 2016-17. On the other hand, the Indo-Myanmar border has been witnessing steady rise in insurgent activities during the period with as many as 206 encounters reported between militants and security personnel spread across four Northeastern States Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. While 18 security personnel lost their lives, 32 insurgents were killed in these encounters. A total 337 rebels were arrested from the international border in the four States during this period. Among the four Northeastern States sharing Myanmar border, maximum number of encounters took place in Arunachal Pradesh. As many as 81 encounters were reported in that State where three security personnel and 13 militants were killed. During this period, 114 suspected insurgents were arrested. Even in 2017, 13 encounter cases have been reported till March in Arunachal along the border with Myanmar. Union Minister Ahir said the Central Government of India in tandem with Northeastern State Governments has adopted a multi-pronged approach to contain cross-border infiltration. This includes strengthening of border management, multi-tiered deployment along the international border and Line of Control, synergizing intelligence flow to check infiltration and pro-active action against terrorists.

The annual report of the UMHA for 2016-17 revealed that the security situation in the Northeast had "improved substantially" during the previous year where insurgency-related incidents decreased by more than 15 per cent compared to 2015. "The security situation in the north-eastern states, which has remained complex for quite some time because of diverse demands of ethnic groups and various militant outfits, improved substantially in 2016.

The number of insurgency-related incidents in the region decreased by more than 15 per cent compared to 2015," the report said. In 2015, while there were 574 insurgency-related incidents, the corresponding figure in 2016 was 484. The report also said 2016 witnessed the "lowest number" of insurgency incidents since 1997. While casualties among SFs in the region declined from 46 (2015) to 17 (2016), civilian casualties declined in all states except Assam where it increased from 9 in 2015 to 29 in 2016. The report noted that while Sikkim, Mizoram and Tripura had no insurgency-related violence in 2016, there was considerable decline in incidents in Meghalaya (44 per cent) and Nagaland (43 per cent) compared to 2015. In 2016, Manipur accounted for about 48 per cent of total violent incidents in the region and Arunachal Pradesh experienced an increase in violent activities by 38 per cent, primarily on account of violence by the NSCN-K, the report stated. In Assam, insurgency-related violence continued to decline and 2016 witnessed the lowest number of insurgency incidents since 1997, it added. In 2016, Meghalaya witnessed a 44 per cent decline in the number of violent incidents. While there were 123 incidents in 2015, the figure declined to 68 in 2016.

The report stated that the number of civilian casualties decreased by 33 per cent compared to 2015. Further, while 25 militants were killed in 2015, the figure came down to 15 in 2016. Similarly, only 59 militants were arrested in 2016 compared to 121 in 2015. However, there was no casualty on the part of security personnel in 2016.

AR arrested an NSCN-K OWG, Wanglam Pansa aka Alam, who was "terrorizing and extorting money" in Khonsa Town of Tirap District. According to PRO (Defence) Colonel, C. Konwer, the over ground worker was nabbed with a pistol and ammunition. During interrogation, he revealed that he was tasked by an NSCN-K cadre to carry out extortion from Government departments of Khonsa Town, PRO added.

A source from the NIA said that a new militant group of Nagas, named as ENNG has emerged in the Arunachal Pradesh in recent times. The ENNG was formed in January last year (2016) by R. Stephen Naga to strengthen the "Naga army" in 'eastern Nagaland' to have a separate political entity and build up alliances with armed groups of Myanmar. The source said "In the last year, the new outfit has already served over two dozen extortion notes, mostly to contractors working in Arunachal Pradesh, demanding 3 per cent of the total order value as extortion money."

SFs arrested a NSCN-K militant with arms and ammunition at Longding District.

The Union Home Ministry has declared three Districts of Arunachal Pradesh - Tirap, Longding and Changlang as "disturbed" area and these Districts will be under the AFSPA act for three more months with effect from today (May 3).

AR arrested two militants of NSCN-K, identified as 'lieutenant' Wanphai Wangsa and 'corporal' Kekho Homku, from Kunsa in Longding District. Two pistols (9mm and 7.65mm) with ammunitions were recovered from the arrestees.

SFs killed a militant belonging to NSCN-K in Wakka village in Longding District. Based on intelligence input, a troop of AR launched operation at Wakka village where the militant group was hiding. When the troops reached the remote area, the militant group started firing and bullets were exchanged for half an hour. Kohima based Defence PRO Colonel Chiranjeet Konwer said that, a militant was killed during gun battle and other militants of the group had managed to flee from the area. SFs recovered a 7.62mm pistol with 10 rounds live ammunition and ammunition of AK-47 from the slain militant who is yet to be identified.

The Union Home Minister will hold a meeting on May 16 to discuss various issues concerning the North East region with Chief Secretaries and DGPs of all northeastern States, where several important issues will be discussed, including granting of citizenship rights to Chakma and Hajong refugees settled in Arunachal Pradesh. Meanwhile, the AAPSU has called on the State Government to oppose any move to grant citizenship to Chakmas and Hajongs.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured AAPSU that any agreement with NSCN-IM will have the 'sanction and blessings' of all the stakeholders and no arbitrary decision will be taken. The statement came, when the AAPSU 'president' Hawa Bagang and General Secretary Tobom Dai met the Union Home Minister in New Delhi and submitted a memorandum raising concern over the 'contentious framework of agreement' signed between the GoI and NSCN-IM. AAPSU in its memorandum stated that it welcome the Naga peace process but not at the cost of territorial integrity.

Reviewing the security situation in the Northeast with chief secretaries and DGPs of the region in New Delhi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh described religious radicalisation as a serious security threat and said if not checked in time; it could lead to terrorism. He also expressed concern over the proliferation of illegal arms in the region and asked the Police chiefs to launch organised campaigns against arms smugglers.

States in the Northeast have asked the UMHA to step up the presence of central intelligence and security forces in five contiguous Districts in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland adjoining Myanmar. These Districts, they said, have emerged as the hub of the last remaining militants in the region. "We have apprised the home minister of the security situation in the northeast and informed him that all militant activities are being controlled from Arunachal's Tirap, Changlang and Longding Districts, and Nagaland's Mon and Tuensang Districts," said a top security official who participated in the northeast security review meeting by Union home minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. "We requested him to increase the presence of central intelligence agencies and security forces in these districts," the official added. According to the UMHA report at the review meeting, the security situation in Arunachal Pradesh (the three districts) and Manipur remains a subject of concern, though relatively less than it has been in the past. These five districts also border as many Districts of Assam on the other side, including Tinsukia District, where the ULFA-I is active and has been carrying out strikes jointly with Meitei outfits of Manipur. "The biggest advantage of these five districts is their proximity to the NSCN-K-controlled areas of Myanmar and their highly difficult terrain, which makes patrolling a difficult task for security agencies," the official said.

The North Eastern States which share international borders with Myanmar have collectively urged the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to take up the controversies surrounding the international boundary with the Ministry of External Affairs for early resolution. The North Eastern States raised the issue during a convention of Chief Secretaries and DGPs with Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Officials who attended the meeting also mentioned about intrusion into Haollenphai of Manipur and confiscation of saw mill components by Myanmarese Army.

Official sources said that the GoI is all set to grant citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees, who have been based in Arunachal Pradesh for over 50 years. Union Home Ministry officials said that while consultations are on with the State Government, the citizenship will not entitle the refugees to rights enjoyed by STs in the State, including land ownership. The State Government has been opposing the proposal of providing citizenship to these communities for a long time and since 1990, the AAPSU has been demanding their ouster from the State. However, officials said that the Centre may propose that Chakmas and Hajongs be issued Inner Line Permits, allowing them to travel and work but not possess land rights.

SFs arrested a ULFA-I militant 'private' Bikram Chakma, during an operation, at Ledo (Tinsukia district Assam) near Changlang District, along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary. A .22 caliber pistol with ammunitions was seized from the militant. On interrogation, the cadre also revealed the whereabouts of an over ground worker of NSCN-K identified as Tara Chand.

The 'Eastern Command' of ULFA-I served extortion demand of INR one million to the former State Education Minister Mr Bida Taku at his residence in Namsai District. Mr Taku told the newspaper that another extortion notice worth INR 500,000 was served to his election agent also.

The AAPSU has strongly opposed the Government of India's decision to grant citizenship rights to Chakma and Hajong refugees of Arunachal Pradesh, while stating that the Union cannot tolerate any decision which would hamper the integrity, dignity and security of the indigenous people of the state. The AAPSU has demanded the government to identify the Chakmas and Hajongs who came to NEFA from 1964 to 1969 before grating citizenship rights in the land of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Naga community in Arunachal Pradesh has urged the Central Government of India to intervene in the long-delayed matter of granting autonomous council status to Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) districts, so that these areas can see socio-economic development.

In an emergency meeting of its central executive members at the NEFA Club under the chairmanship of its general secretary Tobom Dai the AAPSU has decided to conduct a consultative meeting on May 27, at Itanagar to draw opinion for its future roadmap after the decision of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to give citizenship rights to Chakma-Hajong refugees.

Police arrested one unidentified person, who was suspected to be involved in the extortion attempt incident at the office of the Director of Audit and Pension, from Banderdewa area in Papum Pare District. Earlier, on May 22, two assailants, armed with sophisticated weapons entered the room of Director, Audit and Pension, Abdul Bashit and attacked him for an extortion demand. However the assailants fled leaving behind a bag and arms after the officer started shouting. Bashit sustained minor injuries in the incident.

Police arrested four persons, who were involved in the extortion and attack incident of Banderdewa area in Papum Pare District on May 22, from undisclosed locations. The arrested extortionists were identified as Chello John (24), Sonam Para alias Sunday Para (24), Sime Killo (35) and Rima Bodo (30). Police also recovered two hand grenades, five rounds of 7.62mm rifle, a live round of .22mm pistol and five rounds of small arms from the arrestees. Apart from that, earlier on May 22, Police recovered one AK series rifle magazine, 21 live rounds and one hand grenade from the spot of occurrence of the incident.

In a press conference, BYWS alleged that the purported extortion notice served to former Minister Bida Taku by ULFA-I was done 'at the initiative of a political rival in order to cow him down' and demanded the government to expose the person behind the extortion notice.

In a consultative meeting on the Chakma and Hajong refugee issue, the house, consisting of various political parties, students unions, former union leaders and legal experts, endorsed that the AAPSU would call on the government to conduct an all political party meeting within one week's time to draw more consensus on the issue.

In a statement, the AAPSU has strongly condemned the recent rally organised by the PADC committee and questioned the genuineness and integrity of the demand of the PADC, which seeks grant of Autonomous District Council under special provision Act of Parliament of India, under Article 371 (A).

The AAPSU has decided to hold detailed discussions on the vexed refugee issue as well as the stand of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for granting citizenship rights to the Chakma and Hajong refugees in Arunachal Pradesh in its emergency seating of all the federal units scheduled for June 5.

The UMHA has said that there has been a sharp decline in violence, extortion and attacks on security forces in the Northeast in the last three years. As per data available with the UMHA, only 484 such incidents were reported in 2016 as compared to 1,025 in 2012 and 732 in 2013. It further noted that the number of abductions have come down from 329 in 2012 and 307 in 2013 to 168 in 2016. Only 28 such cases were registered till March this year. However, the number of security personnel killed in Manipur shows an upward trend with 24 being killed in 2015 and 11 in 2016 as compared to 8 and 5 deaths in 2012 and 2013, respectively.

The NDFB-IKS suffered a setback with more than 900 cadres being arrested and nearly 55 being killed in security operations, according to the UMHA note. The number of such incidents in Assam jumped to 50 in 2016 as compared to 21 in 2013, the UMHA note stated.

The number of militants surrendering saw a decline with 267 such surrenders taking place in 2016 as compared to 1,161 in 2012, as per official data. Arms recovery was not significant despite a crackdown as 698 arms were recovered in 2016 as compared to 1,856 in 2012.

As many as 1,202 militants were arrested in 2016 as compared to 2,145 in 2012. Of this, the highest number of arrests in 2016 has been made in Manipur (518) and Assam (366) while maximum abduction cases were reported from Nagaland (51) and Meghalaya (52).

In a statement, various Naga groups of Arunachal Pradesh said that the Government can't brush aside the need to establish an ADC in the Naga-dominated areas of Tirap, Changlang and Longding. They said that a Patkai Autonomous Council for Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL) is the only solution for the region, alleging it has been ignored by the State Government and the Central Government of India for decades in terms of its socio-economic development. Various bodies associated with the demand such as Patkai Autonomous Demand District Council and the TCL Students Federation also threatened to hold an indefinite bandh (general shutdown) in the three districts if the Centre and the State Government continue to pay no heed to the matter.

UHM Rajnath Singh said that year 2016 witnessed the lowest number of insurgency-related incidents in last 20 years. "The year 2016 witnessed the lowest insurgency incidents in last 20 years. Such incidents reduced from 824 in 2014 to 484 in 2016. The number of incidents was 574 in 2015, which was the lowest since 1997, and further reduced in 2016. The number of civilian casualties in Northeast has also come down drastically in the last three years," said UHM Singh in New Delhi. "Sustained security initiatives during the last three years have brought peace and stability to the North-eastern region of the country after decades of insurgency," Singh added.

The AAPSU said that it would launch rigorous democratic movement if the State Government fails to convene an all party meeting by including all the 60 MLAs and three MPs over the vexed issue of Chakma and Hajong refugees on June 10 next. Speaking to the media, the AAPSU 'president' Hawa Bagang said that they are not against granting Indian citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees, but are against allowing them to settle in Arunachal Pradesh.

An official communiqu� informed that CM Pema Khandu has convened an all-party meeting in Itanagar on June 19 to discuss the issue of granting of citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees.

Chinese agencies are trying to launch a proxy war with India by using the militant groups of the North East region and some of these plans came to light after a militant leader of ULFA-I, named Ron Asom surrendered recently. Police sources further said that the inputs available with the security agencies indicate that the major militant groups of the region came into a common platform only after pressure from the Chinese agencies and now they have started operating together.

Khango Konyak, who is the new 'chairman' of the NSCN-K, is likely to be the head of the UNLFW, which is an umbrella organisation of the militant groups of North East. Earlier it was expected that Paresh Baruah, the 'chief' of ULFA-I might be the head of the UNLFW. But dismissing speculations about his taking over charge of the UNLFW, Paresh Barua has backed the idea of 'next-generation leaders' coming forward to take charge after the demise of NSCN-K 'chief' SS Khaplang.

At a meeting of the CMs of the four States of North East bordering Myanmar, in Aizawl, the Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu told Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh that India's open border with Myanmar has been a major problem for Arunachal Pradesh because of militants from the other side. He said "The entire region of Tirap, Changlang and Longding [border districts] is adversely affected by NSCN insurgency. Cadres of various NSCN factions -IM, K, U, R- are very active in the entire region� The situation has been exacerbated by the recent declaration of the NSCN-K as an unlawful organisation." "Though there is no home-grown militancy in Arunachal, activities of underground groups from Assam and Nagaland and from across the border with Myanmar has adversely affected the security situation in the state," he added.

The Indian Army admitted that it shot dead a civilian in a case of "mistaken identity" during a counter-insurgency operation in an Arunachal Pradesh village, bordering Myanmar. Defence spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Suneet Newton informed in a statement that the civilian, identified a Thingtu Ngemu (35), was killed when soldiers of 21 Para (Special Forces) were carrying out an operation in Changlang District on June 14-night based on specific intelligence report regarding movement of militants.

An all-party meeting convened by Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu unanimously decided to move the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to revive the Joint High Powered Committee on Chakma and Hajong refugee issue. It was also decided that the minutes of the decisions of the all-party meet would be put forth before the State High Powered Committee headed by the CM.

Police arrested one militant of NSCN-R, identified as Kaplong Khimhun (26), in Changlang District.

The Police forces of various States of the Northeast Indian region may soon coalesce under an umbrella organisation to improve coordination and efficiency. A suggestion in this regard was reportedly made by Assam's DGP, Mukesh Sahay, at the 24th conference of DGs and IGs of Police of the Northeast region held in Guwahati on June 29. It was attended by Satyendra Garg, a Joint Secretary (Northeast) in the UMHA. Sahay said if the militants can have an umbrella organisation, the Police too can have it. He said it would ensure better coordination among the Police forces of the Northeast region. "Like one nation one tax, we can have one NE one NE police. We need to work on making this concept, encouraged by the Prime Minister, possible. We are eagerly looking forward to your recommendations on Nepol," Assam Chief Secretary Vinod Kumar Pipersenia said. Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal and DGP Mukesh Sahay also seconded the idea of 'Nepol'.

According to sources in the UMHA the Union Government is considering partially revoking the AFSPA from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in view of improved law and order in the two States. "The Centre is considering gradually easing out AFSPA from the two States and we have asked the State governments for their comments on the issue. We have got intelligence reports suggesting that several areas in the two states are free from insurgency," said a senior ministry official. The UMHA had extended AFSPA in Assam for three months with effect from May 3. Usually, AFSPA is extended for one year or six months and this was the first time it was extended for only three months. "In the past, the notification for extending AFSPA was issued for six months or more than that but now we are trying to reduce it to three months. We are now considering gradually withdrawing it from Assam and Arunachal," the official said.

SFs arrested one militant of NSCN-R, identified as 'private' Chawang Wangsa, at Mintong village in Longding District. A pistol and live ammunition were also recovered from the arrested militant.

Longding Battalion of AR launched a major operation along the Arunachal-Nagaland border and busted a NSCN-K camp in Pumao village under Longding District. However, the cadres of the militant group managed to escape from the camp.

India has yet again underscored the need to flush out the Northeast-based militants operating from Myanmar. Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Defence Services, Senior General U Min Aung Hliang is currently touring India and he called on PM Narendra Modi and several other ministers in New Delhi. He also called on Defence Minister Arun Jaitley, besides Army chief General Vipin Rawat. According to official sources, the visiting Senior General briefed the PM about bilateral defence and security cooperation. The Prime Minister appreciated the close cooperation between the armed forces of India and Myanmar.

The BGB has denied the presence of North East-based militant camps in the country. Addressing a press conference in Shillong after the culmination of the talks with the BSF officials, BGB Additional Director General (North East region) Mohammad Zahid Hasan said Bangladesh has zero tolerance towards anti-social elements and the country's leadership maintains a tough stand against insurgent groups. "These (presence of insurgent camps) are mere perceptions� We will firmly act if there is any," Zahid said. BSF had raised the issue of presence of outfits like GNLA, ULFA-I and HNLC in Bangladesh territory and sought stringent action against them. Earlier, IG of BSF (Meghalaya frontier) PK Dubey reiterated that there are no regulated militant camps in Bangladesh which existed 10-15 years back and there is coordinated action between the border sentinels of the two countries.

Two militants including one from the NSCN-K and one from NSCN-R were arrested by AR during two separate search operations. In the first incident, a militant of NSCN-K, identified as 'sergeant' Tonpha Pansa, was arrested from Wakka village in Tirap District. A pistol and live ammunition of various weapons were also recovered from the militant. In the second incident, a linkman of NSCN-R, identified as Wangwa Hathum, from Jairampur Town in Tirap District.

The Union Government extended the disturbed area under the AFSPA for one more month, citing various violent activities by insurgent groups ULFA, NDFB, and others. "The Union Home Ministry also declared Meghalaya's border areas adjoining Assam consisting 20 kilometre belt, and three districts in Arunachal Pradesh as "disturbed" under the AFSPA for two more months with effect from August 3 to September 30. In separate gazette notifications, the Home Ministry said entire Assam has been declared "disturbed" under the AFSPA with effect from August 3 till August 31. The three districts of Arunachal Pradesh - Tirap, Changlang and Longding - and areas falling within the jurisdiction of 14 Police Stations in nine other Districts of the State were also declared as 'disturbed' with effect from August 4 to September 30. The 14 Police Stations fall under the Districts of Papumpare, West Siang, East Siang, Lower Dibang Valley, East Kameng, West Kameng, Namsai, Lohit and Lower Subansiri.

NSCN-K announced to boycott the Independence Day celebrations on August 15 in all Naga inhabited territories and appealed to every Naga nationals to abstain from participation.

Security Forces arrested a NSCN-R cadre and an OWG along with arms and ammunition in Changlang District. The cadre, identified as 'sergeant major' Bokam Wangrey and OWG was identified as Raju Kumar Choudhury. SFs recovered an AK-47 assault rifle, ammunition, contraband, multiple SIM cards and other incriminating documents.

Jairampur Battalion of AR and Jagun Police, one NSCN-K militant and another NSCN-K linkman were arrested from Phulbari village in the Assam- Arunachal border.

The Khonsa battalion of AR arrested two militants of the NSCN-IM, identified as Nali Nyamtey and Rangmo Thakte from Bera in Tirap District.

The Jairampur Battalion of AR busted a hideout of the Reformation faction of NSCN-R at Miao in Changlang District,. However, the militants were able to escape using the cover of darkness and foliage. The militants were using the hideout as an ad hoc base for terrorizing people and carrying out extortion in the neighbouring villages, the AR spokesman said.

The SFs have been carrying out aggressive operations in the South Arunachal areas bordering Myanmar where Naga rebels belonging to all the factions of the NSCN including NSCN-IM, NSCN-K and NSCN-R are active creating nuisance for the people of the area.

Troops of 21 Para Special Forces and 16 Assam Rifles killed an militant and injured another one of the NSCN-K near Votnu village under Wakka circle in the Longding District. "Several other militants managed to escape into the nearby dense forest because of dense fog in the area. The Special Forces recovered an AK-56, a radio set and a hand grenade, along with live bullets. During a combing operation, the forces located a camp of the rebels and destroyed it," said an official in the army headquarters.

Security Forces arrested a NSCN-R militant, identified as Hunmai Taidong, from Old Changlang Village in Changlang district.

AAPSU is opposing the decision of the Union Government to grant citizenship to all Chakma and Hajong refugees living in the Northeast,. "The decision of the Centre will spark social unrest in the state and we will oppose granting of citizenship to them (Chakma and Hajong refugees) within the territory of the state," AAPSU 'general secretary' Tobom Dai told reporters here. "The Chakma and Hajong refugees will not be entitled to the rights enjoyed by Scheduled Tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, including land ownership. But they might be given inner line permits required for 'foreigners' in the state to travel and work," an unnamed Union Home Ministry official said.

AAPSU called a 12-hour state wide strike on September 19 to protest granting of citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees in the State. The call came a day after the Union Government's decided to give citizenship to the refugees of the two communities rehabilitated mostly in Arunachal Pradesh in 1964-69 following their escape from the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh.

AR arrested a NSCN-K ultra and two OWG of NSCN-IM in a two separate operations against the outfits from Longding District. NSCN-K militant was identified as 'lance corporal' of the Penom Konyak was arrested from Longding town along with a pistol and live ammunition. The two OWG of the NSCN-IM, Ganglaih Gangsa and Chailai Wangsu, were arrested from Niausa village.

The AAPSU has demanded deletion of names of Chakmas and Hajongs from the voters' list. AAPSU's legal advisor Marto Tato wondered how the Government could decide to give the refugees citizenship when the matter was sub-judice. AAPSU 'general secretary' Tobom Dai appealed to the people to make the state wide bandh on September 19 against granting citizenship to the refugees a success. Union Ministry of Home Affairs had recently decided to grant citizenship to Chakma and Hajong refugees living in Arunachal Pradesh.

Violent incidents were reported during the 12-hour State-wide bandh called by the AAPSU. The dawn-to-dusk bandh was called in protest against the Union Government's decision to grant citizenship to the Chakma and Hajong refugees residing in Arunachal Pradesh. Normal life was hit by the bandh as shops and business establishments kept their shutters down across the State.

Arunachal Pradesh has finalized 900 applications out of 4,637 for citizenship in accordance with a September 2015 Supreme Court order asking the State and the Union Government to confer citizenship on Chakma and Hajong refugees. The State Government had submitted before the apex court on July 11, 2015 that the applications of another "1,014 will be completed within two months" and the "remaining will be finalized in five months positively". The apex court ordered that if the pending cases are not finalized within five months from that day, the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh would be present in person in court on every date of listing of the matter. The court has fixed December 12, 2017 as the next date of hearing.

UMHA has brought down the range of 'disturbed area' under the controversial Armed Forces [Special Powers] Act (AFSPA) 1958 in Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh following improvement in the law and order situation.

Security forces have been unable to trace Bedanta Kumar Sinha, an engineer who was abducted by suspected ULFA-I rebels from his rented house at Bordumsa in Changlang district.

A group of suspected NSCN-K militants attacked the Niausa post of the 4 Sikh regiment of the Indian Army at Longding district. No casualties were reported on either side.

The AAPSU has asked the State government to pass legislation against the Central government's decision to grant citizenship to the Chakma and Hajong refugees.

SFs arrested a NSCN-K militant, Yugdi alias Dangche Cena, in Jairampur circle in Changlang District. A pistol and live ammunition were also recovered from his possession.

Union Minister for State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju asserted to protect the rights of the indigenous people of Arunachal Pradesh and not to let them down at the cost of Chakma and Hajong Refugees

The ongoing Assembly session of Arunachal Pradesh will hold a special discussion on the Chakma-Hajong issue which has been a major concern among the State's organisations. Chief Minister Pema Khandu said that his Government respected the emotions of the people and had not moved away from its stand on the Chakma-Hajong issue. He appealed to the people to "wait and watch" the Assembly proceedings, which would raise the issue of Chakmas and Hajongs of Arunachal Pradesh in view of the Supreme Court''s directive to grant them Indian citizenship.

According to a statistics available with the UMHA, as many as 37 persons including nine SFs personnel were killed in the insurgency related violence in the Northeast region over the last seven months. Official statistics revels that 28 civilians and nine security personnel were killed in 204 insurgency related violence across the Northeastern States. As many as 57 persons were also abducted this year up to July 31st.

SFs arrested a 'private' of NSCN-IM, Ganhee Wangpan, from Longding village in Longding District. A pistol and live ammunition was recovered from his possession. Post spot interrogation, the cadre admitted to being active part of the outfit since 2010 and had undergone training at NSCN training camp, said the PRO-Defence release. The cadre has been actively involved in extortion activities in Longding and Tirap District and has been apprehended twice before in 2010 and 2012, it added.

The militant group ENNG has made it clear that it would not compromise with the territorial integrity of Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh in the event of Framework Agreement between NSCN-IM and the Centre. Stating that the only solution to the vexed Naga political issue is a full-fledged sovereign nation for the entire Nagas, ENNG in a press statement said that neither the Supra-State, which is a Pan-Naga idea nor "Shared Sovereignty". "There cannot be a solution to the vexed Naga political issue unless there was a full-fledged sovereign nation for the entire Nagas," the release said

SFs arrested a 'lieutenant' Tikkam Mossang, (area commander of Miao area) of the NSCN-R with arms and ammunitions from Miao town under Changlang District.

AR apprehended two cadres of NSCN-IM from Mullong village in Changlang district. The arrested cadres have been identified as 'private' Mohonong Tikhak and 'private' Ronong Tikhak. A pistol along with live ammunition was recovered from the two along with other incriminating possessions.

The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh is set to meet the CMs of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur on the issue of 'Framework Agreement' signed between the GoI and the NSCN-IM. Manipur Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh is likely to meet his Assam and Arunachal Pradesh counterparts Sarbananda Sonowal and Prema Khandu before the meeting with Rajnath Singh.

UPML a local body demanding PRC by the state government to the non-Arunachal Pradesh STs has declared a 12-hour strike in Namsai on December 12. The strike will affect Namsai and Lohit districts and the Upper Assam districts of Tinsukia, Dibrugarh and Sivasagar as well because National Highways 37 and 52 are connected.

SFs Killed an NSCN-K militant A Colt pistol, a radio set and other incriminating documents were recovered from the slain militant. According to the Defence Spokesman, SFs have been carrying out aggressive operations in south Arunachal Pradesh and the incident has struck a blow to the illegal activities being carried out by NSCN- militants.

AKDDSU has declared a 12-hour District shutdown on December 20 to protest the deprivation of the district in terms of development. The shutdown is in response to the State Government's failure in fulfilling a charter of demands that the union had submitted to the CMO on October 30.

An NSCN-IM militant identified as major' Yangle Kongkang was arrested by SFs from Khonsa in Tirap District. A pistol, ammunition and INR 10, 200 of extortion money were recovered from him.

ULFA-I militants abducted Arunav Phukan, son of an Assamese BJP leader from Tinsukia District. Militants have apparently asked for a ransom of INR 20 million and have also stated that the abducted person is currently in ULFA-I's Myanmar camp.

AR arrested three NSCN-U militants identified as 'private' Jaichok, 'lance corporal' Panyam Wangjen and Wangpan Wangsa. They also admitted that they were involved in extortion activities for last six months.

An NSCN-K militant identified as Kammo Kanglom was arrested by AR from Khonsa in Tirap District. A pistol, live ammunition, opium and extortion note were recovered from his possession.

SSB Director General stated that 'We are raising a battalion at Yuksum in Sikkim, which will be deployed on the border. More BOPs are coming up on the eastern Sikkim border, reports Indian Express. He also added that SSB plan for entire Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan border. At present there are 635 BOPs.

Son of local BJP leader in Tinsukia District , identified as Arunab Phukan who was abducted on December 15 by ULFA-I was release at at Tengmu village bordering Myanmar in Changlang District.

ATCO an organization formed for welfare of Nyishi, Adi, Tagin, Apatani and Galo tribes has declared a 12-hour capital shutdown on December 29 to be followed by 24-hour and 36-hour shutdown on January 10 and 17 across Abotani-inhabited Districts. ATCO president stated that the shutdown was against State Government's indifferent approach towards ATCO's demand for creation of the Department of Abo Tani Tradition and Cultural Affairs.

State Government declared that ATCO general strike as illegal. A TCO called the shutdown to protest the delay in creation of the Department of Abo Tani Tradition and Cultural Affairs. The Government's decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein at his official residence.