Incidents and Statements involving NDFB: 2013

Date

Nature of incident

January 1

Udalguri District of Assam

Kokrajhar District of Assam

PJACB economic blockade starts with supporters blocking NH-31C in Assam.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

The indefinite economic blockade called by the PJACBM has been suspended till January 15, following intervention from the MHA.

Sonitpur District of Assam

ABSU warned of a massive movement if Bodoland is not formed by the time the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh State gets statehood. ABSU 'General Secretary', Jiron Basumatary further called for the release of jailed NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary to facilitate the peace process.

New Delhi

UHM, Sushil Kumar Shinde said that ban on outlawed ULFA and NDFB would continue.

Chirang District of Assam

SFs arrested a militant belonging to I K.Sanbijit faction of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Sailot Narzary, from Sukrajhar area under Basugaon Police Station.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

SFs arrested two injured militants of the NDFB-IKS, following an encounter with SFs, at Ultapani.

Kokrajhar District

SFs killed two militants, identified as Thungri Basumatary and Barfu alias B Borailing belonging to the NDFB-IKS at Delaishree near Lumsung Forest reserve under Chirang reserve.

Chirang District of Assam

SFs arrested an NDFB-IKS militant, identified as Sylot Narzary (25) alias Syco, from Salbari area under Basugaon Police Station.

New Delhi

Central Government said that the SoO Agreement with the NDFB-PTF had been extended till June 30, 2013.

New Delhi

The next round of political dialogue between the Government and NDFB-PTF is likely to be held later this month, even as the NDFB-PTF renewed its demand for creation of a separate State of Bodoland. A five-member delegation of NDFB-PTF led by 'general secretary' Govinda Basumatary on January 16 had their first interaction with UMHA, Sushilkumar Shinde. The militant leaders urged the UMHA to expedite resolution of their charter of demands.

Bongaigaon & Chirang Districts of Assam

SFs arrested three linkmen NDFB-IKS, identified as Hitesh Das alias Kendura, Bidya Basumatary alias Bonjar and Thempu Narzary.

Sonitpur District of Assam

SFs arrested two armed couriers of NDFB-IKS, Bipul Khaklari (39), and Chandradhar Bora, (32), and recovered a Chinese grenade launcher and 12 shells at Tezpur.

Bongaigaon District

SFs arrested a women conduit of NDFB-IKS, Benita Mushahary.

NDFB-RD has clarified that the outfit was not behind any extortion demands in the region and cautioned the people not to give away to the fake demands made in the name of the outfit.

The 'Information and Publicity Secretary' of the NDFB-RD, B Najib said that the outfit was not behind the demand of INR five million as was reported in some section of the media. The Publicity Secretary said that such demands are being made by organizations who pose as NDFB-RD with the conspiracy to malign the name of the outfit and to derail the outfit's peace parleys with the Central Government.

Kokrajhar in Assam

NDFB-PTF and the PJACBM [a body supporting NDFB-PTF on Bodo State issue] strongly reacted on the allegations levelled by the ruling BTC leaders, blaming NDFB-PTF for rampant extortions and kidnapping in BTC areas. The 'Assistant Information and Publicity Secretary', NDFB-PTF, R Daokha said that the allegation of extortion and kidnapping in BTC areas levelled by State Transport Minister Chandan Brahma and BTC Deputy Chairman, Khampa Borgoyary in a demonstration held at Kajalgaon on January 28.

NS

Beginning of formal talks with the NDFB-RD will depend on the release of the chairman of the outfit, Ranjan Daimary on bail.Meanwhile; Daimary has been able to win over most of the rebels of the outfit to persuade them to join the peace process.

Highly placed official sources told the newspaper that though the Central Government's interlocutor PC Haldar had conducted several rounds of informal talks with NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary in jail to pave the way for formal talks with the outfit; it is still not decided as to when the talks would start.

New Delhi

NDFB-PTF softens its stand on changing the Centre's interlocutor, P.C.Haldar for the peace talks with the outfit. The next round of talks is scheduled to be held on February 28. The Bodo militant outfit had earlier demanded that the Centre should replace Haldar with a person of political background.

New Delhi

MHA -Joint Secretary in charge of North-east, Shambhu Singh said that the Government was not responsible for the slow pace of negotiation with the Bodo militant outfit. The tripartite talks were attended by officials of Assam Government, the NDFB-PTF, besides the MHA.

Chirang District District of Assam

SFs arrested a suspected cadre of NDFB-IKS Mithisat Narzary (22), from Aipoali in Bengtol area. Police said he had demanded money from a senior officer in the District.

Bongaigaon District of Assam

Runikhata residents caught one Jaiklong Basumatary alias Biren for demanding money from local people posing as an NDFB cadre and handed him over to the Police in Bongaigaon District. He confessed to making the demands and named two accomplices, who were later arrested from Bhurdalang.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

Suspected militants belonging to the NDFB-IKS exploded a powerful bomb in the railway tracks at Goabari. No casualty was reported. The bomb suspected to have been planted by the NDFB-IKS exploded at 1.10am two minutes after the Howrah-Guwahati down Garibrath Express passed the area between Gossaigaon and Fakiragram, Police said.

Kamrup (Metro) District of Assam

Operation wing of Assam Police arrested four youths, who were on their way to Myanmar to join the NDFB-IKS, from the interstate bus terminus (ISBT) in Guwahati. The arrestees were identified as Uttam Borgayari (23), Minu Basumatary (27), Anima Brahma (19) and Bharati Basumatary (19). All of them hail from Chirang District of BTAD.

Ri-Bhoi District of Meghalaya

The crime branch of Guwahati city police and State police carried out a joint operation last night & arrested eight members of a criminal gang suspected to be behind the abduction of businessman Rajib Sharma. Sharma is yet to be freed. SFs seized two .9mm pistols and five rounds of ammunitions from the arrested persons. According to the Police, the arrested criminals were part of the gang, which abducted a Guwahati city based businessman, Rajib Sharma when he had gone to Byrnihat in Meghalaya on February 1. Later, the family of the businessman received a call on February 3 by suspected NDFB militants asking for a ransom of INR 10 million for the trader's release. Sources in the crime branch said of the eight arrested so far, Madhu Boro is suspected to be an NDFB member.

Mon District of Nagaland

There was an exchange of fire between 6 Assam Rifles and NDFB cadres near Lapa village under Tizit sub division. One NDFB cadre was arrested after the exchange of fire and explosives and one nozzle (muzzle) loading gun was seized.

West Garo Hills District in Meghalaya

BSF troops arrested an ULFA and NDFB linkman identified as Santok Koch (20) while he was trying to infiltrate into India on. During preliminary questioning, the linkman confessed that he was working with ULFA and NDFB and facilitating trans-border movements of their cadres.

Chirang District of Assam

SFs arrested a militant belonging to NDFB-RD, identified as Mathura Basumatary (25) alias B Majumser, from Rangsaidham area of No -2 Amguri area under Basugaon Police Station. One Chinese grenade was recovered with him.

Kokrajahar District of Assam

SFs killed a militant belonging to NDFB-IKS, identified as Pri Pri Mushahary, somewhere near the Ripu reserve forest under Kachugaon Police Station in Gossaigaon sub division. However, another NDFB-IKS militant managed to escape in the thick forest.

Kokrajahar District of Assam

The body of abducted businessman Raju Saha (30), of Dotma in Kokrajhar District, was recovered from the approaching road to National Highway 31-C, about 150 meters from Serfanguri Police Station. Local People suspect the hands of the NDFB-IKS behind the killing of Saha.

Baksa District of Assam

Armed suspected militants abducted a young engineer of a private construction firm engaged by Power Grid Corporation of India from Betagaon. The Police said they were yet to identify the abductors. Sources in Baksa said the NDFB, which has a strong base in the area, might have demanded money from the construction firm and abducted the engineer as it refused to pay them. No one from the company was available for comment.

Chirang District of Assam

SFs arrested two NDFB linkmen.

A NDFB militant identified as Simang Brahma, was arrested from Rowmari in Chirang District in a joint operation by Police and the Army.

SFs arrested a NDFB militant, identified as Moni Narjery, from the Misamari area. The arrested militant was arrested with a grenade. Narjery was a militant of NDFB's Sangbijit faction and was involved in February 22, 2013 grenade blast near Belsiri railway station.

SFs arrested five persons, including two NDFB militants and three linkmen, from Koiemari in Baksa District. SFs recovered a .9mm pistol, six mobile sets and two bikes from the militants.

The NDFB-PTF threatened not to take part in the peace dialogue, being held for past seven years, with the Central Government unless it is held at the political level to resolve its demand for Bodoland state.

NS

Formal talks with the NDFB-RD are yet to be started. The initiation of formal talks with the NDFB-RD would depend on the release of Daimary on bail.

Baksa District of Assam

An engineer of the PGCL, abducted by suspected militants and taken to their camp in Bhutan, was released. SP Raju, hailing from Nellore in Andhra Pradesh, arrived at Ghawra Chowk police station in Baksa District and informed the Police about his release. The engineer was abducted by suspected NDFB-IKS militants on February 15.

New Delhi

NDFB-PTF did not participate in a tripartite meeting in New Delhi, sticking to its stand of not participating in peace talks unless these are held at the highest political level.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

Normal life was affected and a bike was set on fire on the first day of the 100-hour bandh (shutdown strike) called by the PJACB since midnight. The committee has called the bandh in the proposed Bodoland area, comprising BTAD and adjoining tribal-dominated areas, in protest against the State Government's "lackadaisical" attitude towards their demand for a separate state under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution. The committee also wants the Centre to hold a dialogue with the NDFB-PTF at the highest political level.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

A motorcycle and a goods carrier were set ablaze as the 100-hour proposed "Bodoland" bandh (general Shutdown) announced by the PJACBM from the midnight of February 28 paralysed life for the fourth consecutive day. Both the incidents were reported in Kokrajhar District. PJACBM is demanding the creation of Bodoland state comprising BTAD and adjoining tribal-dominated areas, under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution, which is not supported by State Government. PJACBM also wants the Centre to hold a dialogue with the NDFB-PTF at the highest political level.

Kokrajhar District of Assam

Two militants of the NDFB-IKS, surrendered before the officers of the Red Horns Division of the Army and Police. The two surrendered militants were identified as 'second lieutenant' John Islary alias Jwngsar and N Jangkrithai alias Jigkanta Narzary (26). John Islary was the former Commanding Officer (CO) of Western Command and is now the CO of the Central Region of the NDFB-IKS.

NS

The NDFB-PTF has made it clear that it would not accept any alternative arrangement other than a separate State of Bodoland.

Kamrup (metro) District in assam

Five suspected NDFB-ATF cadres hatching a plan to abduct a bank employee from Guwahati city were arrested from the Christianbasti area. The arrested cadres have been identified as Gajen Boro alias Lenra, Sanjiv Swargiary alias Ranjal, Jita Boro, Mithuyal Basumatary and Vijay Ramchiary. All of them are from Baksa District.

A civilian driver, identified as Sukumar Das (32), was abducted by a group of suspected militants belonging to the NDFB-IKS near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. The daring abduction took place even though the driver was accompanied by three army troopers of the intelligence department from the Army base in Misamari.

SFs arrested one militant of NDFB-IKS, identified as Phunka Narzary (19), from Oguri village under Bijni Police Station in Chirang District.

SFs arrested a NDFB linkman, Sanjeev Mushahary (28), from an undisclosed location.

Sonitpur District in Assam

SFs arrested two suspected NDFB cadres, identified as Mohash Baghoar (20) Sunil Bormohalia (19), from Rangapara town. SFs recovered one country-made gun along with three rounds of ammunition from the cadre.

SFs arrested two suspected linkmen of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Jotin Nazari and Putuli Nazari, near Koliabhomora Bridge in Sonitpur District. SFs recovered a pistol and five grenades from their possession. The husband-wife duo was on their way to Biswanath Chariali from Dimapur via Tezpur on a motorcycle.

The Central Government has ruled out general amnesty for the members of NDFB-RD, who have been charged with involvement in heinous crimes, including the serial blasts in the state on October 30, 2008.

Kokrajhar-Chirang Districts in assam

NDFB-IKS banned felling of trees and other illegal activities inside the reserve forest. NDFB-IKS has issued leaflets in many areas, especially in the vicinity of forest areas in Ripu-Chirang Reserve in Kokrajhar and Chirang Districts. The leaflets were issued by the NDFB-IKS 'forest minister' B. Sibigiri, and 'commanding officer' of NDFB-IKS's western command, M. Biban.

Six insurgent groups are currently active in Assam while 12 others in talks with the Central and State Government, Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Rockybul Hussain said. Six groups - ULFA-ATF, NDFB-ATF/ NDFB-IKS, KPLT, KLO, MULTA and HuM-are active in the State; Hussain said replying to a question in the House.

Hussain said outfits in talks were NDFB's Progressive faction, ULFA-PTF, KLNLF, ACMA, BCF, KRA, UKDA, KLA, HPC-D, APA, AANLA and STF.

The NDFB-RD and the NSLA have declared unilateral ceasefire, Hussain said while replying on behalf of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who also holds the Home Affairs portfolio, said.

Two groups -BTF and ULFBV have already surrendered. Settlement has been reached by the central and state governments with the UPDS and the two factions of the DHD.

"However, details regarding the progress of talks with various outfits cannot be disclosed now," Hussain said. On cases faced by leaders and cadres of outfits in talks, he said, "We will not lift the cases faced by them. The cases will be dealt by the courts and judiciary. A monthly assistance of INR 3,000 is provided to each cadre belonging to groups engaged in peace talks.

New Delhi

A six-member delegation of the PJACBM and NDFB-PTF, met the UHM Sushil Kumar Shinde in New Delhi to discuss the peace talk with the NDFB-PTF in political level to resolve the problems. The delegation was represented by Jebra Ram Mushahary, Chief Convener, PJACBM, Chief Advisor Gangadhar Ramchiary, Maihung Daimary, Member, PJACBM, B Swmkhwr, and 'General Secretary' of the NDFB-PTF M Gerema, 'Home Secretary' and B Alongbar, 'Organizing Secretary' of the outfit. The UHM assured them to expedite the peace talks on desired political level to find an amicable solution to the Bodoland issue.

Guwahati in Kamrup (metro) District in Assam

Members of FTVFA at a press conference in Guwahati city urged the Government, the judiciary and the public to stand by the victims of the October 30, 2008 serial blasts and pleaded that NDFB chief Ranjan Daimary, who masterminded the serial blasts in the state, is not released on bail. The district sessions court on March 30 heard the bail plea of the militant chief and reserved its judgment till April 3. Official sources said that Daimary is likely to get interim bail to allow him to participate in the ongoing peace parleys between the Centre, state and the NDFB.

Goalpara District of Assam

SFs recovered an IED, suspected to be planted by NDFB militants, from a connecting road between Kanyakuchi and Saljhar Township under Rangjuli Police Station in the same District.

Dhubri District in Assam

Two cadres of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Thaijan (Tamaran) Brahma and Baitu (Kamishar) Brahma, were arrested from Basbari Market in a joint operation by SFs based at Panbari. One US-made automatic pistol, two magazines, 11 rounds of live ammunition, one hand grenade along with a fuse, INR 25,000 in cash, two mobile phones, photos and documents were recovered from them.

Sonitpur District in Assam

SFs arrested two suspected NDFB-IKS cadres, during operations, in the foothills area of Misamari. The two arrested militants were identified as Prem Surin (26 yrs) and Kathimal Mushahary (45 yrs). SFs recovered two country made rifles, one barrel of country made rifle and one butt of a rifle.

Guwahati in Kamrup (rural) District in Assam

The State Government said that it will not interfere in judicial matters of cases involving leaders and cadres of militant groups engaged in peace talks, Minister for Panchayat and Rural Development Rockybul Hussain informed the Assembly that while the State Government gave full support to talks between the Centre and militant groups, it was up to the judiciary to decide bail pleas and related issues of arrested militants. On the peace talks between the NDFB-RD and the Centre, Hussain said that the Central Government's interlocutor P C Haldar had held several rounds of talks with Daimary, who is lodged in Guwahati Central Jail.

Tinsukia District in Assam

At least seven militant groups will attend a meeting to be hosted by ULFA-PTF on the threat posed by illegal migration to State's ethnic communities at the group's designated camp in Kakopathar in Tinsukia District on April 7. April 7th is ULFA's raising day. The participants are leaders of HPC-D of Mizoram, DHD of Dima Hasao, Karbi National Liberation Army of Karbi Anglong, ANVC of Meghalaya, NDFB-PTF and KRF.

Kamrup (metro) District in Assam

The court of the District and sessions judge, Kamrup, asked CBI to file its views on NDFB-RD chief Ranjan Daimary's plea for grant of absolute bail and reduction of the bail amount from the current INR 500,000. The bureau has been given time till April 10, the next date of hearing of Daimary's bail plea, to do so.

Chirang District of Assam

SFs arrested two NDFB militants, identified as Fungkha Narzary (25) and Obi Basumatary, from Rowmary area in Chirang District. SFs recovered one pistol, seven rounds of bullet and INR10,400 from them.

Guwahati in Kamrup (metro) Distrct in Assam

The CBI opposed any relaxation in the conditions it had prescribed for releasing NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary on bail. In response to Daimary's bail application, the CBI had earlier submitted in the court that interim bail might be granted to him by imposing 12 conditions in the bail order. Ranjan Daimary on March 31 prayed to the court for absolute bail instead of interim bail, reduction of the bail amount from INR 500,000 sought by the CBI and not to bar him from giving any statement to the media. Ranjan Daimari was chargsheeted by the CBI for his alleged role in masterminding the October 30, 2008, serial blasts in the State.

Guwahati in Kamrup (metro) Distrct in Assam

The Court of Kamrup District and Sessions Judge granted bail to NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary, the prime accused, in the October 30, 2008 serial blasts in the State. "Ranjan Daimary has been granted bail against a bail bond of Rs 3 lakh [INR 300,000] and two persons standing surety for him. The court has also laid down some conditions for him which are - he cannot get involved in any anti-national activity, he cannot give statements in the public favouring the NDFB (R), he must be present in the court during all hearings in the case and in case he cannot be present, he must give prior information to the court and he cannot leave Assam without the court's permission," said Daimary's defence counsel Manas Sarania.

CM Tarun Gogoi speaking at the 'Chief Ministers' conference in New Delhi said that there was a declining trend in militant violence in the State. CM, Tarun Gogoi said, "In the past few years, there has been a declining trend of militant violence and talks are on with several militant outfits. However, it would be over-optimistic to declare that the nightmare of militant violence is over ". He said at a regional level, it was clear that coordinated action was needed in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and some parts of Meghalaya if training; arms supply, transit routes and shelters of militants operating in Assam were to be choked. Tarun Gogoi said that Myanmar remained a sanctuary for militants and there were efforts to reopen camps in Bhutan."The crackdown by the present Bangladesh government was a major factor in eroding the striking power of outfits like ULFA [United Liberation Front of Asom] and NDFB [National Democratic Front of Bodoland], and we will remain forever grateful (to Bangladesh)," he added.

Tarun Gogoi further said, "We have asked the government to increase the number of foreigners' tribunals, initiating steps to update the National Register of Citizens, strengthening of the border protection measures and completion of border fencing".

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi pointed to growing activities of the CPI-Maoist in the State and citing tough terrain asked the Centre to explore the feasibility of deploying UAV in the State. CM Tarun Gogoi further pleaded that the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) that forms a plank of the Centre's strategy against the CPI-Maoist, should cover Dhemaji, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh and Golaghat Districts initially. The IAP should be implemented without delay, he statetd.

NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary has claimed that the CBI's allegation of his involvement in the October 30, 2008, serial blasts in the State was based on "supposition and probabilities" and not on facts. According to Daimary, who was granted bail in the serial blasts case on April 11, the CBI has not been able to establish any prima facie case against him and the allegations in the chargesheet were "false, concocted and fabricated".

However, according to the CBI chargesheet Ranjan Daimary had sent NDFB militant Nilim Daimary to Assam with instructions to procure explosives with the help of G. Songswar, an NDFB militant from Udalguri District. Nilim came to Assam in July 2008 and conveyed Daimary's message to Songswar and R. Guthal. He also contacted George alias B. Jwangkhang, Rahul Brahma alias Kharmswar and Rifikhang in Guwahati. The CBI claimed to have found involvement of the trio in the serial blasts.

Despite the crackdown by the Government of Bangladesh, a majority of the active militant groups of the North East are still maintaining bases in the neighbouring country and in fact, a few of the ultra groups are even giving training to the new recruits in the bases in that country. Highly placed sources in the MHA told the newspaper that the matter has already been conveyed to Bangladesh so that action can be taken against the militants using the territory of the neighbouring country as safe sanctuary.

Sources revealed that the NDFB-IKS has a strong presence in Bangladesh, particularly in the Khagrachari area and according to information available with the security agencies at least 30 to 40 members of the outfit are staying in the area. Sources said that the camp is headed by hardcore militant Thulunga, who was named in the chargesheet of the serial blasts of October 2008. A few fresh recruits of the militant outfit are being trained up in the bases, the sources added.

The militant groups, NDFB and KLO are calling business persons and demanding money from them in Dhubri District since last week. The KLO has been demanding huge amounts of money from businessmen in Chagolia and Golokganj areas of the District. A senior police officer of Dhubri district, while admitting about the calls from KLO to businessmen, leaders and contractors in Chagolia, expressed doubt over the calls from supposed NDFB cadres. "As we know there is no presence of NDFB in Dhubri district. Groups involved in this extortion network are intimidating and threatening businessmen to cough up money. We are keeping a close watch on this," a source said.

Hagrama Mohilary, chairman of BTC, on April 21 said that is hopeful of the reunion of the two factions of the NDFB and a positive outcome of the peace talks.

SFs arrested a militant belonging to NDFB-IKS, from Balapara in Chirang District.

Sivasagar in Assam

SFs arrested fifteen cadres belonging to NDFB-IKS from Namtola, on the Assam-Nagaland border in Sivasagar District. The arrested militants were identified as Robin Narzary (20), Subhash Basumatary (23), Chandan Narzary (23), Swmgwm Narzary (20), Ronjoy Basumatary (18), Khagen Basumatary (24), Subung Ser Brahma (20), Ankang Brahma (20), Arjun Narzary (20), Basiram Bodo, (19), Sanjay Hazary (18), Sankar Brahma (32), Samjit Basumatary (19), Eyo Musahari (18), and Prahlad Narzary (19). A senior police official said the Songbijit faction has been sending recruits to Myanmar for training. "They use the route from Kohima to Mon town via Sivasagar district. The cadres are kept in Kohima before being sent to Myanmar. They are first taken to Chenmyo camp of the NSCN-K [Khaplang faction of Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland] on the Nagaland-Myanmar border and then sent to the NDFB (Songbijit) camp at Taka in Myanmar," he added.

NS

The arrest of 15 new male recruits of the NDFB-IKS in Sivasagar District, on May 3, while they were on their way to Myanmar for training has taken intelligence agencies by surprise, for the outfit's Myanmar-based leadership had asked for only female recruits. "There are intercepts about the group's top leader issuing instructions to its point man, Udla, who is currently located in Kohima, to send in female recruits as the number of male recruits undergoing training in Myanmar is disproportionately higher. Probably, these 15 boys were the last batch of males being sent to the neighbouring country before the female recruits are sent," a source associated with counter-insurgency operations said.

Kamrup (rural) District in Assam

SFs arrested a NDFB linkman, Dibakar Deka, from NH 31 under Rangiya Police Station. SFs recovered a 7.62 revolver, four rounds of live cartridges, a mobile set and some SIM cards from his possession.

DGP, JN Choudhury stated that though the level of violence involving the militant groups has come down, growing ethnic tension in different parts of Assam has become a matter of serious concern. Meanwhile, over 60,000 cases are pending in different Police Stations of the State, which is another major area of concern for the Assam Police.

DGP, Choudhary, said that with majority of the militant groups having come forward for talks with the Government, the level of violence has come down and only the anti-talk faction of the ULFA-ATF, NDFB-IKS, KPLT etc are active in the State now. However, these groups do not have all Assam footprints. But extortions by the NDFB-RD/ NDFB-IKS remain an area of concern, the DGP said.

Choudhury admitted that the growing ethnic tensions are a matter of concern as in recent times, the Kokrajhar and Goalpara areas of the State witnessed serious ethnic disturbances and long-term strategies would have to be taken to deal with the problem. He said that efforts are on to increase the number of Police Stations to improve civil policing and the State Government has already sought financial assistance from the Centre for setting up of new police stations.

The DGP pointed out that of late, the mobs have become more and more aggressive and dealing with such mobs is a major problem as the Supreme Court also gave clear-cut guidelines on the use of force.

Heavily armed unidentified group of people numbering 10 to 15 believed to be cadres of the NDFB are demanding heavy extortion from coalmines supervisors, commonly known as sordar, in the mineral rich East Jaintia Hills District, according to a report of May 15. Reliable sources informed that the suspected NDFB militants have issued several receipt slips to coalmine supervisors in East Jaintia Hills particularly in Sohkymphor area. "The receipt slips were issued to them (sordar) instead of demand notes and they were asked to pay the amount mentioned in the receipt slip or face abduction," the sources informed.

ASM, ITPF and NDFB-PTF have asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to instruct the State government to identify and detect foreigners before updating the NRC.

SFs arrested a militant belonging to the NDFB-IKS, Mandish Daimary, from Mainaguli in Sonitpur District.

SFs arrested two suspected NDFB militants, Bailo Basumatary (32) and Anil Boro (30), from a guesthouse at Jatia in Kamrup (metro) District. Police said two .9mm pistols and 12 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from them. A case has been registered in Dispur Police Station and an investigation was on.

SFs revealed that arrested militant of the NDFB-IKS, Mandish Daimary is a key accused in the Adilur Rahman murder case. NDFB-IKS militant, Mandish Daimary was arrested on May 21, 2013, when he went to collect INR 25,000 as extortion money from a businessman. According to the Police, he acted as the NDFB-IKS's 'collection in-charge' in Sonitpur District. Sonitpur SP, Arabinda Kalita, said this was the first time a cadre of the Songbijit faction had been arrested in the District. Adilur Rehman, a tea planter, was killed by NDFB-IKS militants on November 13, 2012.

AAGSU blocked the National Highway-52 in Sonitpur District, for two hours, to protest against extortion notices given by NDFB to Gorkha residents of BTAD and parts of Sonitpur District. AAGSU 'Sonitpur District committee secretary' Gopal Chetry said the NDFB threatened the people living in the Nepali dominated villages to provide INR 50,000 or else leave the BTAD Districts. Chetry also claimed that the more than 200,000 Gorkha population at Charduar, Balijuri, Tinikhuti, Vimajuli, Gohpur and Biswanath Chariali subdivisions were not feeling safe due to the extortion drive of the insurgent group.

May 28

Kokrajhar / assam

The BPF, Kokrajhar District committee brought a bike rally in Kokrajhar against the rampant extortions in the BTC region by militant organizations and urged Central Government to take strict action against extortion & all other forms of unlawful activities. President of the Youth-BPF, Mono Kumar Brahma, speaking to the reporters said the rally was brought out in Kokrajhar against the extortion drive carried out by the militant organizations, particularly the NDFB-IKS in Northern Part of the region.

MLA Pramila Rani Brahma while talking to reporters said the extortionists have been serving notice for paying huge amount of money ranging from INR 1 million to INR 2 million in Ultapani and Saralpara area in the District and created a reign of terror in the region. She said the militant organizations, particularly the NDFB-IKS’ ongoing extortion drive in the Northern part of the region and should be stopped by any means and the Government should act accordingly against them.

Statement

May 29

Bhalukpong near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh

SFs arrested three militants of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Raiman Khaklari, Jula Basumatari and S. Narzari, at Bhalukpong near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. The arrested trio were reportedly involved in the killing of tea planter Adilur Rahman on November 13, 2012.

Non-violent

May 29

Assam

The BTC Regional Committee of the AGS demanded the State government to safeguard and protection of lives and properties of Gorkha people living within BTC region. They also demanded round the clock vigilance and Police pickets in certain places where the Gorkha have threat perception. ‘President’ of the AGS, Laksmi Sedai, said that extortion notices in the name of the NDFB were served to the innocent Gorkha villagers living in Indo–Bhutan border areas. He said the villages like Ultapani, Saralpara, Jharbari, Khalasi, Patgaon and Athiabari in Kokrajhar District, Shantipur, Runikhata, Malivita, Patabari, Amteka, Kaila–Maila, and Nijilaguri in Chirang District have been facing the brunt of anti–social elements.

Statement

May 29

Shillong in East Khasi hills / Meghalaya

Shambhu Singh, Joint Secretary (northeast) in the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, said “The link between Maoists and Manipur’s [People’s Liberation Army] PLA has been broken long time ago due to logistical problem in Myanmar and strong presence of security forces along the India-Myanmar border”. He added that the relationship between these two rebel outfits was broken over the past one year now after the PLA shifted their training camps to Taga in Northern part of Myanmar. Earlier on October 22, 2008 PLA and Maoists signed their MoU.

Stating that the Maoist has not been able to establish itself in the others states of the region, Singh said, “They (Maoists leaders) have visited Manipur and Nagaland, but they have not been able to establish themselves. In the Northeast, only Assam has few remnants of Maoist activities. In the case of Meghalaya, there is no Maoist presence.”  Singh also informed that Indian rebels groups -- PLA, NDFB-IKS and the ULFA-ATF– operating from Myanmar has been facing a difficult time to infiltrate into India since most of the routes have been blocked by Security Forces. Even the Khaplang faction of the NSCN-K had even cautioned the ULFA and NDFB not to move out of Myanmar in view of the strong security presence,” Singh added.  However, Singh, admitted that there are certain areas along the international border that need improvement in guarding. “But the overall troop deployment has improved,” he said.

Statement

May 30

Udalguri district / assam

Two cadres of the NDFB-IKS were arrested by the army's Red Horn Division in the Kahibari Chowk area of the Udalguri District bordering Bhutan. The army said the duo, identified as B Hadwad alias Hakim Basumatry and B Birgrang alias Binju Lis were involved in large-scale extortion in the District. Two pistols and ammunition were found on the duo.

Army officials said that there has been a spurt in the activities of the Songbijit faction in the District after it broke away recently from the faction headed by Ranjan Daimary, who is currently in jail and evinced interest for talks.

Non-violent

May 30

Chirang / Assam

A college teacher from Chirang District in the BTAD, who went missing three months ago, is “suspected” to have joined the NDFB-IKS. Ranjit Basumatary (40) was teaching history at Bengtol College since 2004. Chirang District superintendent of Police Kumar Sanjit Krishna said, “The college teacher has been missing since the past three months. We suspect that he has joined the NDFB (Songbijit) faction.” A close colleague of the missing lecturer confirmed the development saying, “Ranjit has completed his basic training with the outfit. Currently, he is the general secretary of the outfit. He had told me this over phone,” the colleague said.

Statement

Former State Minister for the Welfare of plain tribes and backward classes, Rajen Mushahary was arrested along with three alleged cadres of the NDFB-IKS by Security Forces from his Habrubil residence in Gossaigaon subdivision of Kokrajhar district on June 2. Mushahary was minister during the AGP government in the state. The arrested militants were identified as Nusar Basumatary (30), Anthony Hazoary alias H. Abita (31), and Nal Narzary (29).

Union Minister for Home Affairs Sushilkumar Shinde in his address said that SoO Agreements have been entered with various insurgent groups in the Northeast and these groups have shown willingness to give up violence and seek solutions for their problems peacefully within the Constitution. "Our government is ready to talk with any group or outfit which is willing to abjure violence and lay down arms like KNO and UPF in Manipur. Further, Metei groups like URF, KCP and KYKL along with their factions, signed MoS in February, 2013 paving way for surrender of their cadres," he said. Shinde said peace talks are also being held with a number of outfits like ULFA, NDFB-P and NDFB-RD. These strategies have resulted in steady reduction in the level of violence. "Moreover, the aforesaid strategy of the government has also encouraged surrender by militants belonging to various groups and their participation in the political process. The central government is continuously assisting the northeastern states by the deployment of central paramilitary forces to assist the state police in counter-insurgency operations and upgrading their skill level", he added.

Police arrested two militants belonging to NDFB-IKS, identified as Sanswanga Ajuwara and Anchal Basumatary, at Bhalukpong in West Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Kokrajhar / Assam

A 'platoon commander' of the NDFB-IKS, identified as B Rafwt alias Risto Brahma (23), was shot dead by a joint team of the army and the Police near Balanga Bazar under Dotma Police Station in Kokrajhar District. Police said the joint team, on specific information, cordoned off the area where the militant was hiding. The Security Forces recovered one 9mm pistol, a grenade and a mobile handset from his possession. Brahma, who was the 'platoon commander' of the NDFB-IKS in Dhubri and Kokrajhar Districts, was from the 33rd batch of the outfit and was trained in Bangladesh.

NS

NDFB denied that Probin Boro of Bihapara under Tamulpur Police Station in Baksa District, who was arrested by Security Forces on June 11, as its member. 'Information and Publicity Secretary' of the NDFB, B Naijab demanded early release of Probin Boro and further threatened action.

BSF personnel of Purakhasia, South West Garo Hills arrested two NDFB Linkmen. The two have been identified as Nipendra Koch and Sisir D. Sangma. They were apprehended while trying to exfiltrate into Bangladesh. During preliminary questioning, the duo confessed that they had crossed over to India two days ago and went to Ampati. The two linkmen were involved in facilitating cross-border movement of the NDFB cadres.

A TADA court and an Additional sessions judge's court in Guwahati granted bail to jailed NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary in five cases. While the TADA court granted him an interim bail for a period of six months, the session's court gave him an absolute one. "He was granted conditional bail in the TADA cases for six months on two surety bonds of INR 500,000 in each case," said, Daimary's lawyer, Manas Sarania.

The BNC urged the NDFB factions to stand united for the Bodo cause. BNC 'chief convener' and BTC deputy chief, Kampa Borgoyary said the outfit had everything to gain if it raised a united voice. The statement came after NDFB-RD 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary was granted bail in five cases on June 19, clearing the way for his release. Daimary, who is currently in jail, is likely to be released this week after all related formalities are completed.

State DGP, JN Choudhury, said that extortion has become a matter of serious concern, particularly in the BTAD areas. He said that the NDFB-IKS and other active militant groups are also trying to launch extortion drive to boost their coffers. DGP Choudhury revealed that the KLO and Bongaigaon, some Adivasi groups have started it in Biswanath Chariali area, while, the other militant groups are also trying the same. The ULFA-I is trying to extort money in upper Assam, while, some criminals are also trying to take advantage of the situation to collect money in the name of the ULFA.

on the activities of the CPI-Maoist groups, the DGP Choudhury said that though the Maoists are not launching armed movement in the State, there is need for checking the growth of the rebels in the State.

BPF organised a public meeting at Saralpara along Indo-Bhutan border in Kokrajhar District against the rampant extortions in the area by the militant organizations. BTC 'Chairman' Hagrama Mohilary said the extortion from the common people was rampant in bordering areas with Bhutan since the couple of months. He said the NDFB has been being blamed in the extortion of money from the people especially in the border areas. He urged upon the NDFB to stop the rampant extortions from the common people. Mohilary said the demand of money from the people went beyond limit since the past two months.

Gaonbura (village Headman) of Saralpara village (Kokrajhar District), Monorath Sarmah, said before media persons that the Nepali people those who have been living in bordering areas with Bhutan have been paying tax ranging from INR 50,000 per annum to the NDFB since the past 19 years at a tune of INR 400 per family. He said the outfit has been demanding INR 200,000 per annum from the villagers instead of INR 50,000 a year and this demand has been made from Saralpara and Ultapani (Kokrajhar District). Besides, the NDFB has served similar demand from Jharbari in the District, he added.

NDFB's founder 'chairman' Ranjan Daimary, was released on bail from the Guwahati Central Jail. Following his release, Daimari said that he will take part in the proposed peace talks. Daimary also urged splinter groups to unite and engage in peaceful negotiations with the Indian government. Daimary had obtained bail in all the 14 cases in which he is an accused. Ranjan Daimary was handed over to the Indian authorities by their Bangladeshi counterparts on May 1, 2010.

Ranjan Daimari said the problems faced by the Bodos could be solved only by democratic means, through talks with the Government. Daimary would stay at a make-shift designated camp at his village Borigami Kasibari in Udalguri District along with some senior NDFB members reported the same newspaper on June 22.

Daimary's release has not gone down well with certain sections especially the families of those affected by terrorist activities in the State,.

Sonitpur / Assam

NDFB-IKS is carrying out its subversive activities and extortion in Sonitpur District from their camps in deep forests in Arunachal Pradesh border along the District. SP, Arabinda Kalita said correspondent that the Songbijit faction of the militant group was sending text messages to demand extortion to traders and other individuals in the district. Three top leaders of the Songbijit faction [NDFB-IKS] are carrying out their subversive activities in the three areas of the District- Lifang at Dhekiajuli, Fangjara at Bhalukpong and Bikrai at Balisang, adds SP, Kalita.

NS

The Central Government is all set to launch peace talks with Ranjan Daimary, founder 'Chairman' of the NDFB. Daimary was released from jail on June 23, after a six-month interim bail was granted to facilitate his participation in the peace process. The Centre's interlocutor for peace talks with NDFB-RD, PC Haldar, said, "We will soon start the process (talks) with him now that he has been granted bail by the court."

Dimapur/ Nagaland

SFs arrested five suspected NDFB militants, including one woman, from Dimapur railway station. The arrested militants were identified as Pranab Kumar Basumatary (26), Prajib Narzary (25), Rajesh Kolabari (24), Sobhoraj Borgoya (19) and Karimbabi (35). INR 50,000 along with 5 mobile handsets was seized from their possession.

Sivasagar / Assam

SFs arrested two persons belonging to NDFB Theophilus Leo Basumatary (28) (cadre) and (linkman) Nur Bahadur Tamang, at Dolebagan area under Mathurapur Police Station in Sivasagar District.

Kamrup / Assam

Members of various militant formations are stealing expensive motorcycles from Guwahati City to make easy money. According to Police militants belonging to NDFB-RD stole a bike worth INR 400,000 from the city's Rupnagar area in May this year. The bike was later recovered at West Kameng District in Arunachal Pradesh.

Sadhu Debnath of Runikhata in Chirang district was abducted on July 8 by suspected NDFB cadres belonging to the Songbijit faction. According to sources, Debnath, who runs a tailoring-cum-clothes store at Runikhata market, had gone to Dorogaon in Chirang District after receiving a telephone call from where he is said have gone missing.

The city Police arrested a suspected NDFB cadre, identified as Jyotish Diamary, who was wanted by Khliehriat (Jaintia Hills District) Police in connection with a kidnapping case. Diamary was later handed over to Khliehriat Police.

Two NDFB-RD militants were killed and two security force personnel injured, in an encounter, at Tharaibari under Chariduar Police Station near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Sonitpur District. The police recovered two pistols and ammunition from one of the slain militants, identified as Gauranga Basumatari from Goalpara District. The other militant is yet to be identified. The Police were hunting for Gauranga who was allegedly involved in the killing of planter Adilur Rahman on November 14, 2012. In an emailed statement, B. Najib, the 'information and publicity secretary' of the NDFB-RD, however, claimed that the two cadres, taking shelter at a residence in Tharaibari under Charduar Police Station, were dragged out and shot by a team of police commandos.

Report said that two groups of militants, both from the NDFB-RD and NDFB-IKS have been taking shelter in the Chariduar which lies to the north of Sonitpur District. Recently, five cadres from NDFB-IKS, including the two killed, joined the NDFB-RD after the NDFB leader Ranjan Daimary was released from jail

NDFB-PTF called on the NDFB-RD and NDFB-IKS to join hands with it to carry forward peace talks with the Central government in the greater interest of the Bodo community.NDFB-PTF 'president' Dhiren Boro alias B. Sungthagra said the NDFB had been a single entity before ideological differences led to formation of the two other factions. Stating that the peace talks with the government of India were proceeding smoothly, with both sides responding positively, Boro urged the NDFB-RD and NDFB-IKS to join the negotiations to ensure a lasting solution to the Boro imbroglio."We can expect a good political solution to the problem soon if we stand united while carrying forward the peace process," he said. "It would be a positive step."

NDFB-PTF chose existence as a SAR of China rather than accepting the Central Government move to give more powers to Autonomous Councils. Resenting the fact that Bodos and other indigenous people living within the proposed Bodoland area were yet to get full-fledged political autonomy, a press statement issued by the NDFB-PTF's 'publicity secretary', S. Sanjarang, said it would be better for these communities to be a part of a Special Administrative Region in China "if the government of India has only decided to provide more powers to the existing Autonomous Councils of the region".

Inspector General of Police-in charge of BTAD, GP Singh stated that though the police and security forces launched a massive operation to seize illegal weapons in the BTAD, extortion still remains a major problem in the area as a number of militant outfits are still active in the area. Some members of the militant groups under cease-fire agreement with the Government are also involved in forceful fund collection. IGP, Singh told that more than 120 weapons including AK series rifles were seized during the operation. Following the crackdown, open display of weapons, at least in the towns, has stopped but it is difficult to say whether such weapons are still available with the miscreants, Singh said.

IGP-BTAD, GP Singh said that NSLA is still active in extortion activity. Though the APA has come overground to solve its problems through talks, one group of the outfit is still at large and members of the group are involved in extortion. These groups are active mostly in the Gossaigaon-North Bengal belt and in addition to extortions are also involved in few abduction cases.

IGP-BTAD, GP Singh said that IK Songbijit faction of NDFB-IKS, with around 75 cadres, has bases in Karbi Anglong and Biswanath Chariali area apart from the main base in Myanmar. IGP further admitted that the NDFB-IKS is also involved in extortions in different parts of the BTAD, while, some members of the NDFB-RD, which declared unilateral ceasefire with the Government to express its desire for talks, are also extorting money. Further, according to reports, there have been instances where members of both NDFB-RD &NDFB-IKS stayed together in the interior places. Singh said that though it is difficult to say whether the militants still have bases in Bhutan, the terrain in the area, particularly during the rainy season makes it difficult to launch sustained operations.

An encounter took place between suspected militants of NDFB -IKS and the RBA in the Indo-Bhutan border area.

Following the exchange of Fire with RBA the militants retreated towards the forest area of Chirang District and fired on the SSB troopers who were patrolling near the border. In retaliation the SSB troopers fired shots and conducted search operation in the area and at Lalai River near Sashipur area under Amguri Police Station in the District. Later, in the evening the SSB jawans recovered one cap used by the NDFB-IKS militant besides four empty and one live cartridges of AK-47 rifle, sources said. According to the sources, two NDFB-IKS cadres were injury in the encounter. Security sources also claimed that the NDFB-IKS leader, B Bidai was injured in the incident.

The modus operandi of the militant was to push back the Bhutan Army from the border area so that they can enter into the Bhutan territory, sources said. Chirang SP, Kumar Sanjit Krishna said, "The Royal Bhutan Army chased two youths in the border area and fired at them. When the youths were running towards Indian side, the SSB jawans on patrol duty blank fired on them". However, no casualty was reported from the SSB side, the sources said.

State Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain stated in the Assembly that altogether 78 persons were killed and 191 abducted by different insurgent outfits in 601 incidents, during the last two years, when 20 security personnel were also killed. The ULFA-I had killed 16 persons, including a 10-year-old girl, a four-year-old boy and girl each, while the anti-talks faction of NDFB-ATF had killed 12 civilians including a 10-year-old-boy, Hussain said.

The KPLT killed 12 persons, NSCN-IM/K killed four, Meghalaya based GNLA killed three, KLO, KRA, DNRF, HPC and Dima Halim Daogah- Jewel Garlosa (DHD-Jewel) killed one each, besides 25 by other militant formations.

A total of 135 militants were killed and 2,749 arrested during the period, he said. To another question, the minister said five underground outfits are active in Assam and they are ULFA-Liberation, NDFB, KPLT, KLO, MULTA and HUM Assam unit.

ULFA-I has urged Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to give "an honourable and decent repatriation" to its jailed 'general secretary' Anup Chetia.

NDFB-IKS denied hands in firing on RBA at Lalai near Chirang District along Indo-Bhutan border. In a press statement, the 'spokesman' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferenga clarified that the outfit had no connection with the attacks.

NDFB-IKS urged the Bhutan government to disclose the whereabouts of the NDFB's leaders who went missing during the 2003 Operation All clear.

BTC 'chairman' Hagrama Mohilary asserted that abduction and extortion carried out by the cadres of NDFB-RD and NDFB-IKS is detrimental for the Government's peace process with the militant formation. Mohilary said though NDFB-IKS is a breakaway faction of NDFB-RD but in the grass root level, the cadres of both the outfits are indulging in similar activities, even as the NDFB-RD 'Chairman' Ranjan Daimary has come forward to hold talks with the Central Government.

Central Government interlocutor P.C. Haldar began formal talks with the NDFB-RD in Guwahati but cautioned that dialogue could not be an excuse to carry on unlawful activities like extortion. Haldar's caution follows accusations by BTC chairman, Hagrama Mohilary that the Daimary and I.K. Songbijit factions of the NDFB are engaging in extortion in the BTAD. Although both sides claimed that the talks had kicked off on "a positive note", Daimary said political issues did not come up and discussions were limited to steps to carry the dialogue forward. "We will meet next month for further discussions".

DGP, JN Choudhary said that extortion is still a problem in BTAD. The NDFB-IKS is extorting money from traders in Kokrajhar, Chirang, and Bongaigaon and even in Kharupetia in Darrang District though the amounts are not big. We are not sure whether the money reaches the organisation or is pocketed by groups but our efforts to root out the problem are on.

Two NDFB cadres surrendered before the Security Forces in Sivasagar District. They also handed over two 9mm pistols.

CPI-Maoist is promoting opium cultivation popular in Districts along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary. According to security sources, the CPI-Maoist is taking the help of local rebel outfits to encourage opium farming, which, although illegal, is a traditional practice in these areas and is a lucrative occupation for locals. "It is a fact that the Maoists tacitly promote opium and ganja cultivation in order to raise funds for their activities. The cadres of the anti-talks factions of ULFA [ULFA-Independent] and NDFB [NDFB-IK Songbijit], who are hiding at several places in Arunachal Pradesh, are helping them in their latest venture," said an unnamed senior intelligence official.

"Around 200 youth are reported to be running the poppy farming racket in the border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. They get a monthly stipend of INR 1,500-2,500. The local outfits, which are helping the Maoists are also paying approximately INR 30,000 per acre to willing farmers for growing opium," added an unnamed security source from Arunachal Pradesh.

Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Nabam Tuki had said, "We are trying to sensitize the people and replace the traditional poppy farming with other cash crops, rubber plantation or flower and fruit cultivation."

The 'general secretary' of the NDFB-PTF Govinda Basumatary said that any discussion with its rival NDFB-RD does not arise at the moment. Basumatary also said that he is unaware of NDFB-RD's demands, which the NDFB-RD is going to place before the Government. He also refused to accept March 25, 1971, as the cut-off date for identifying foreigners in the State, saying that considering this date as the cut-off would not safeguard the interests and rights of the indigenous people.

SFs arrested three militants belonging to NDFB-IKS from Batabari village under Dotma Police Station in Kokrajhar District. The arrested cadres were identified as Mithinga Narzary (22), Kampa Basumatary (19) and Nikhil Muchahary (22).

Bodo organizations, including the PJACBM and NDFB-PTF, have warned the Central Government, which is considering the creation of a separate Telangana state, of reviving their agitation for a separate 'Bodoland State' if the issue is sidelined.

People of the State are forced to pay 'taxes' to militant formations, including the KPLT, & NDFB-IKS. NDFB-IKS, KPLT along with the ULFA-I have unleashed a massive and coordinated extortion drive in the State and have also introduced 'tax slabs'.

The ULFA-I and the NDFB-IKS are making fresh efforts to take help of China. According to reports available with the Government agencies, both the ULFA-I and the NDFB-IKS recently managed to get in touch with some "Chinese elements" in Yunan province but it is still not known whether the outfits were promised any help.

CM Tarun Gogoi stated that the strength of the ULFA-I militants has declined and the Security Forces have foiled many of their attempts. CM, Gogoi further said that insurgent groups like NDFB-IKS and KPLT had extended support to the ULFA-I.

Militant outfits having bases in Myanmar, including the ULFA-I and the NDFB-IKS, have started re-using the routes through Nagaland to enter the State. Earlier the militants were using the routes through Tirap and Changlang Districts of Arunachal Pradesh to come down to Assam from Myanmar. But following domination by the Central forces and Arunachal Pradesh Police in the area, the militants have started re-using the routes through Nagaland, particularly through Mon District to come down to India.

Operations unit of Guwahati city police arrested a militant of NDFB-IKS, "sergent major" Annai Narzary alias Kangfu, from Jorabat area in the outskirts of the City. Three mobile handsets and SIM cards were seized from him.

Kokrajhar /Assam

The ABSU curtailed its 60-hour statewide bandh (general shut down) to 48 hours and the AKRSU shortened its 36-hour bandh to 31 hours in view of Eid (August 9). The UPDF suspended its 1500-hour bandh on assurance of Central Government- NDFB-PTF leader’s peace talks. These bandhs, demanding separate states of Bodoland and Kamtapur, were called in Lower Assam Districts of Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Chirang, Baksa, Dhubri and Goalpara since August 5. They ended at 6am on August 7.

Chirang / Assam

Two cadres of the NDFB-IKS ,identified as Gwmsrang Basumatary alias B. Gwjwglai (30) and Bonojit Basumatary alias B. Bwrlang (22), surrendered on August 8 evening at Kajalgaon in Chirang District. They deposited an M-20 pistol, a 7.65mm pistol and two live rounds each.

NS

The NDFB-PTF-backed PJACBM on August 9 said it will go ahead with its 100-hour highway blockade called on August 13."We will not withdraw our 100-hour highway blockade from August 13 till the State Government arranges tripartite talks with Centre on the creation of Bodoland on or before August 13. As of today, we are sticking to our blockade call," said PJACBM convener Bhraman Baglari.

NS

The NDFB-PTF, in an e-mail, claimed that the ruling parties of the State have always been the main hindrance towards the creation of a separate tribal State.

NS

A NDFB-PTF leader stated that his group is ready for a compromise if a Union Territory is granted instead of a Bodoland State. “Give us a Union Territory, we will be satisfied. Between Sixth Schedule (status) and statehood, there is no other path to give us political power. So Union Territory status is acceptable to us if the government of India cannot give us a state” NDFB-PTF ‘general secretary’, Gobinda Basumatary said. 

NS

11 militant outfits based in India’s Northeast, six from Manipur, three from Assam and one each from Meghalaya and Tripura, have jointly called for a boycott of Independence Day (August 15). The outfits include KCP, KYKL, PREPAK, PREPAK-PRO, RPF and UNLF of Manipur, which operate from one platform called CorCom, HNLC of Meghalaya, KLO, NDFB, ULFA-I of Assam and NLFT of Tripura. These groups now describe northeast as “Western South East Asia (WESEA) region”.

The Unified Command strategy group met on August 12 to review the state's security preparedness following reports that the State could face attacks from ULFA-I, NDFB-IKS and KPLT ahead of Independence Day (August 15).

Inspecting the security measures at the parade ground at Khanapara in Guwahati, DGP J N Choudhury said that both ULFA-I and the NDFB-IKS are trying subversive activities in the state.

NDFB-IKS militants lobbed two grenades at two different places in Chirang District ahead of Independence Day. The militants lobbed a grenade at Chapaguri Police point under Dhaligaon Police Station along National Highway 31(C). In another incident, a grenade exploded at Domgaon under Bengtol Police Post. However, no one was hurt in the explosions.

The NDFB-IKS militants lobbed a grenade near a gas agency at Batabori near Bijni town in the Chirang District. No casualty was reported in the incident.

One person was injured as militants triggered four explosions. Suspected NDFB-IKS militants simultaneously exploded two grenades at the G D Road mini bus stand and near the Bodoland Territorial Council office in Kokrajhar town [Kokrajhar District], both close to the venue of the Independence-Day celebrations, the Police said. Bipul Brahma (45) was injured in the explosion at the bus stand, while no one was injured in the other blast near the BTC office. The bomb disposal squad recovered later another unexploded bomb from there.

Suspected militants lobbed a grenade at the AMSU office at Bagorgaon village under Bijni Police Station in Chirang District. No casualty was reported in the incident. The local people caught hold of the two motorcycle-borne militants hurling the grenade, assaulted them and handed them over to the police.

The PJACBM would resume its Highway Blockade from August 16 . PJACBM had earlier decided to relax its ongoing 100-hour highway blockade for Independence Day (August 15). The PJACBM called a 100-hour highway blockade from August 14, demanding creation of a separate state of Bodoland by carving out 25,000 square kilometers area from Assam on the northern bank of Brahmaputra. The PJACBM is a conglomeration of 55 organizations backed by the NDFB-PTF.

Security Forces, during an encounter, killed a militant belonging to the NDFB-IKS in the Guabari Nepali Basti area of Jharbari in Kokrajhar District.

NDFB-PTF said it wanted statehood and was not willing to settle for anything less, like a Union Territory. In a statement issued to the media, NDFB-PTF 'general secretary' Gobinda Basumatary said, "We are sticking to the demand for Bodoland. We have been demanding creation of the state in accordance with the provisions of Articles 2 & 3 of the Constitution for the past seven years during our dialogue with the government of India." Basumatary also criticized a section of the press for making a "deliberate attempt to spread misgivings among people about NDFB-PTF's stand by stating that he had scaled down the demand for statehood to that for a Union Territory. In an interview to the same newspaper published on August 12, NDFB-PTF Basumatary had 'dared' the Centre to grant Union Territory status to Bodoland.

The AAGS alleged that the NDFB-IKS is indulging in massive extortion and abduction in the BTAD area and Darrang and Sonitpur Districts. Further, the AAGS demanded security from the State government for the affected people.

Chairman of NDFB-IKS, IK Songbijit, has stated that they are fighting for liberation of 'Independent Bodoland'. Songbijit said they have been continuing their struggle for 'Independent Bodoland' and they have no relation with those armed guerrilla organizations who do not have similarity with the principle and ideology of the NDFB. When asked whether they are interested for peace talk with the government of India what Ranjan Daimary, the founder 'Chairman' of the NDFB is doing, Songbijit questioned what could be the basis of peace talk. He said if the government of India is willing to grant 'Independent Bodoland' through internationally monitored referendum, then it would be possible for them to join the peace talks.

On the question of massive extortions, kidnapping and killing by the NDFB-IKS in BTC region, Songbijit claimed that not a single 'innocent' people have been killed by the NDFB cadres. He, however, said 'paying tax' for the 'cause' of Bodoland is a 'patriotic duty' of the people of Bodoland.

NDFB-PTF 'president' Dhiren Boro, said the Bodos have their own language, culture, identity but were suppressed by successive Governments.

SFs arrested a cadre, identified as Daphlang Mushahari (19), of the NDFB-IKS from Parbatipur village of Chirang District. A 7.65mm pistol and two rounds of ammunition were recovered from the cadre.

Five militants of the ULFA-I and an NDFB militant surrendered before senior Army and Police officials at the army camp in the Ranghar Chariali area of Sivasagar District and deposited a huge cache of ammunition.

The number of SFs killed in extremist-related violence in Assam has drastically come down in the last three years as most of the militant groups are now in ceasefire with the government. According to figures available with the State Home Department, the number of SFs killed by militants has gone down from 14 in 2011 to four in 2012 to only two this year (till June).The number of incidents of militancy-spawned violence has also plummeted in the state this year compared to previous two years. The number of incidents of militant violence in Assam has decreased to 124 this year (up to June) compared to 213 in 2011 and 264 in 2012. The SFs attribute it to some major militant groups, including the ULFA-PTF led by Arabinda Rajkhowa and the Ranjan Daimary faction of the NDFB-RD coming to the negotiating table."As a result of this, the number of deaths of civilians killed by extremists has also declined. The number of civilians killed in the state in militancy up to June this year is 10 compared to 29 in 2011 and 39 in 2012," an official source said. He said that though militant violence has come down in the state, there has been no let-up in extortion in the state. The source said that extortion is being carried out by militants as well as a section of former militants and criminals. "A large number of extortion cases were being reported from the BTAD. The NDFB-IKS is involved in large scale extortions in the BTAD and adjoining areas," the source said.

The Guwahati (Chandmari) Police arrested two fake NDFB cadres, Ananta Rajbongshi and Prabin Kumar, on charges of making extortion calls to a Chandmari area based businessman in Kamrup (metro) District.

Suspected NDFB militants triggered a powerful blast near Mayapuri cinema in Bongaigaon town of Bongaigaon District. However, no casualty was reported. Bongaigaon SP, Abhijit Bora said, "An NDFB hand is suspected in the blast". But he did not name the faction involved.

The NDFB-IKS denied its involvement in the bomb blast at Bongaigaon District on August 28,. In a statement issued to the media through email, the outfit's 'spokesperson', B.R. Ferenga, stated: "Our organisation is not involved in the blast. It is a propaganda of the Assam Police". It said it was a Police ploy to create a misunderstanding between Bodos and non-Bodos and to kill innocent Bodo people in the name of conducting operation against the NDFB.

NDFB-IKS warned the 'colonial rulers of India' and 'outsiders' who have been living in tribal belts and blocks not to go against the interest of the Bodos in the region. The NDFB-IKS claimed that the Bodos were the aboriginal people of the Western South-East Asia, so called-NE region. In a press statement issued by the spokesman of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferrenga strongly condemned the statement of AABYSF for using harsh word 'Nefarious' against them.

SFs, in an encounter, killed two unidentified NDFB-IKS militants in Khagrabari area under Runikhata Police Station of Chirang District. One 9 mm pistol and one grenade were recovered in this operation. In a press statement, the spokesman of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferrenga, however, said that the slain duo did not belong to NDFB-IKS.

Links between two militant outfits, NDFB-IKS and the KLO, have been growing. The outfits jointly abducted at least four persons in Chirang and Baska Districts. The NDFB-IKS has provided explosives, including TNT and IED to the KLO to strengthen the outfit. KLO, whose activities were limited to North Bengal areas, has become more active in Assam. It said, for the first time the KLO has started sending its members to Myanmar for training. At least 30 boys from the Districts of Dhubri and Bongaigaon have been recruited recently and most of them were sent to Myanmar for training. The outfits like the NSCN-K and KYKL of Manipur are reportedly assisting the KLO in organizing training of the cadres in Myanmar. Sources said that most of the operations of the KLO are now masterminded by one Shyam Roy, who is from Assam.

SFs arrested five cadres of the NDFB-RD from Jorabat area of Guwahati city in Kamrup (metro) District.

Tezpur police arrested three suspected NDFB-IKS cadres at Bhomoraguri checkgate in Sonitpur District and seized three AK-47 rifles, 120 rounds of ammunition and three magazines from them.

SFs, in an encounter, killed two cadres of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Rahul Brahma and Anjalu Brahma, at Audang bazar in Kokrajhar District.

CM Tarun Gogoi said the next rounds of talks with the NDFB-PTF would be held in Delhi on September 12. On the ongoing controversy over inclusion of villages in the Autonomous Council areas, he said there is bound to be conflict of interests but it should be resolved amicably. He said the Centre should provide funds to the development councils in the state since the state government has been unable to provide adequate funds to these councils because of financial constraints.

SFs have arrested two persons, Birsa Toppo (43) and Jased Basumatari (27), and seized arms and ammunition from their possession in Tezpur town of Sonitpur District. SFs recovered three AK-56 rifles, six magazines and 120 cartridges. "Both the apprehended persons said the weapons were given to them by a person in Dimapur in Nagaland and they were paid to deliver these weapons in Udalguri District of Assam, allegedly for use by Anti-talks faction of the NDFB (IK Songbijit faction of National Democratic Front of Bodoland) group," the SSB said in a statement.

The 36-hour BTC area bandh (general Strike) call given by the UGDIMYF in protest against the killing of two NDFB-IKS cadres on September 8 at Audang Bazar in Kokrajhar District passed off peacefully on the first day (September 10).

The NDFB-RD is likely to sign a SoO agreement with the Government by the end of September. An official source said that September 30 has been fixed as the tentative date for signing of the agreement, barring last-minute changes.

The NDFB-IKS strongly reacted on the statement of the Joint Secretary, MHA, Shambhu Singh who threatened the NDFB that bullets will be the answer. The outfit said the attempt of the GoI to give answer with bullet instead of solution and to suppress with iron hand is very shameful to India

Suspected cadres belonging to the NDFB-RD abducted a small tea grower, Bhadreswar Nath, from his garden under Itakhola Police station in Sonitpur District. Superintendent of Police Arabinda Kalita said that Nath was abducted for ransom but no demand has been made till now. He added that rebel Ram Singh from the faction was involved in the case. The outfit has been extorting money in the district bordering Arunachal Pradesh for some time now.

Guwahati City Police intensified their operations along the Assam-Meghalaya border after intelligence inputs hinted that a group of 20 NDFB militants are trying to create a base in these areas.

SFs in an encounter killed a militant of the NDFB-IKS, identified as Bilifang Basumatary alias Bwilima (25), at Bismuri in Kokrajhar District.

Bhadreswar Nath, a small tea grower, who was allegedly abducted by militants of the NDFB-RD, was released near a dense forest on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Sonitpur District. Nath was abducted from his garden in Jaishidhi under Itakhola Police Station in Sonitpur District on September 13.

Even as the Ranjan Daimary faction of the NDFB-RD is in the process of preparing the list of its cadre and arsenal, some of its members are believed to join IK Songbijit faction of NDFB-IKS.

SFs arrested a 'second platoon commander' belonging to Songbijit faction of NDFB-IKS, Ajana Chumpramari (22), at Salbari under Runikhata Police Station in Chirang District.

SFs arrested a linkman of the NDFB-IKS, Sanjay Basumatary (20), from Jiaguri under the Jiaguri Police Station.

Despite the crackdown launched by the Government of Bangladesh, around 200 members of militant groups of the North East region of India are still taking shelter in the neighboring country and a list of the shelter points was handed over to Bangladesh during the recent meeting between the Border Security Force and Borer Guard Bangladesh. Sources in the MHA told that the militants are not maintaining any full-fledged camp in Bangladesh but they have been maintaining at least 25 shelters, mostly in the areas like Khagrachari, Bandarband, and Rangamati in CHT.

Sources said that most of the militants staying in Bangladesh belong to the NLFT of Tripura. But other groups, like the ULFA-I, PLA and UNLF of Manipur, NSCN-IM and NDFB, are also maintaining shelters in the neighbouring country. The Government is still not sure whether the NDFB members staying in Bangladesh belong to the Ranjan Daimary or IK Songbijit faction.

NHPC Tawang project, official Anil Kumar Agarwal, was abducted by militants of the Songbijit faction of the NDFB-IKS from the 12 Mile area of Charduar of Sonitpur District bordering Arunachal Pradesh.

Govinda Basumatary, 'General Secretary' of NDFB-PTF, stated in his speech that the Bodo people took up arms to struggle for Bodoland and NDFB came up from the time Government of Assam and India.

The abductors of NHPC official Anil Kumar Agarwal contacted his family members and demanded INR 20 million for his release. Agarwal, who is looking after the Tawang [Arunachal Pradesh] project of the NHPC, was abducted on September 21 evening from Charduar 12 Mile near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border by six cadres of the NDFB-IKS.

Suspected NDFB-IKS militants ambushed a vehicle carrying SF personals killing a Police officer and his driver in between Mainaguri and Malatijhora under Kazigaon Police Station Kokrajhar District. The injured Police Constable Sajahan Miya said that that they were in the area to collect and verify the names of cadres of NDFB-RD to be submitted ahead of their transfer to designated camps. State DGP J.N. Choudhury told that checking the activities of the Songbijit group was a "priority" now.

SFs killed two militants belonging to NDFB-IKS militants, Raju Brahma and Mahesh Brahma, at Segunbari near Malathijhora in Kokrajhar district. The duo was allegedly involved in yesterday's ambush of a Police team.

Three NDFB-IKS militants were arrested after being caught by people at Bhogpur in Baksa District.

NS

NDFB-IKS claimed not to have served any extortion demand for the release of NHPC official Anil Kumar Agarwal and added that he was safe in its custody. The outfit's general secretary B. Saoraigwra categorically denied having sent any email or letter to the NHPC, demanding INR 200 million for Agarwal's release. Saoraigwra said the outfit had abducted Agarwal over an issue related to the construction of big dams which would adversely affect the people and the ecology.

NS

The MHA has started the process of finalising the dates for the next round of talks with the organisations agitating for creation of separate States, while the date for signing a formal ceasefire agreement with the Ranjan Daimary faction of the NDFB has been finalised. Joint Secretary (North East) at the MHA, Sambhu Singh said that the formal ceasefire agreement with the group would be signed on October 17 to pave the way for formal talks with the outfit.

NS

The Progressive faction of NDFB, which is demanding a separate Bodoland State, justified its demand saying a separate State is a must to protect and preserve the interest of the indigenous people of the region as well as to counter the effects of influx.

Morigaon

Police arrested a cadre of NDFB-IKS, identified as Swmkwr Basumatary from Jagiroad in Morigaon District.

NS

The NHPC chief managing director, G Sai Prasad, on October 2, appealed to Assam governor, J B Patnaik to help secure the safe release of the abducted general manager of the NHPC's Tawang hydroelectric project, Anil Kumar Agrawal.

Dimapur / Nagaland

Khatkati Police of Bokajan subdivision arrested one NDFB-IKS, identified as Ruidip Basumatery from Dimapur railway station in Dimapur District.

A team of Karbi Anglong Police arrested nine cadres of NDFB including five women cadres coming from Diphu railway station (Assam). Police said the entire group was on their way to Myanmar for receiving training on subversive activities. They were rounded up as soon as they arrived at Dimapur railway station.

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Nabam Tuki, has appealed for the safe release of abducted NHPC official Anil Kumar Agarwal at the earliest. Agarwal was abducted on September 21 by the NDFB from Assam.

Kokrajhar/ Udalguri/ Assam

The NDFB-IKS on the occasion of observation of its 27th rising day reaffirmed to fight for the liberation of Bodoland with strengthening of policy and build up capability. The NDFB (Songbijit faction) observed the foundation day at an undisclosed location in lower Assam along with the other factions of the outfit. The NDFB (Progressive) led by Dhiren Boro observed the day at Serfanguri designated camp in Kokrajhar District while Ranjan Daimary faction of the NDFB observed the day at Odla Kashibari in Udalguri District.

Assam

There is no trace of abducted General Manager of NHPC, Anil Kumar Agarwal yet. ADGP-Law and Order, A.P. Raut said, "Our operations have been on but unfortunately we are yet to rescue the abducted official. We have arrested some people and recovered the motorcycles used in the crime."

SFs arrested one militant belonging to NDFB-IKS, Karim Saframari alias Jawkhab, at Khungri village under Runikhata Police Station of Chirang District. SFs recovered one hand grenade and one mobile phone from him.

The NDFB-IKS has claimed that the Principal of Diamond English Medium High School (Udalguri District), Evangel Narzary, has formally joined the outfit. He is the second educated person who joined the outfit after the split of the NDFB in the current year. Earlier, one of the lecturers of Bengtol College of Chirang District joined the outfit. This was disclosed by 'Spokesperson' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferengga.

The Ranjan NDFB-RD has submitted the list of its cadres to the Government to pave the way for signing of the formal cease-fire agreement. However, the SFs are not yet ready to accept the list of weapons submitted by the outfit. Highly placed police sources told The Assam Tribune that the NDFB (RD) has submitted a list of 410 cadres with their addresses and the process of verification of it is now on. So far, around 90 per cent of the verification process has been completed.

SFs are yet to trace NHPC general manager, Anil Kumar Agarwal, 19 after his abduction by the NDFB-IKS militants. Agarwal's family members told this correspondent today that the abductors had called them up on October 7 and said that NHPC officials would have to negotiate with them for his release.

NDFB-IKS has appealed to other factions of NDFB including NDFB-PTF not to create misunderstanding among the people and asked them to stop all sorts of harassment to the family members of their colleagues.

The 'Spokesperson' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferenga said in a statement that the allegation of 'Assistant Information and Publicity Secretary' of the NDFB-PTF, R Daoka in a section of news paper was not based on fact.

Ferenga further condemned the provocation of the Indian Army by giving harassment to the family members of NDFB-IKS and Evangel Narzary (NDFB-IKS member) and asked to stop immediately and if fails, then they have no other option but to harass innocent family members of Indian Army and Police too.

SFs remaining clueless about the whereabouts of abducted NHPC General Manager Anil Kumar Agarwal, Arunachal Pradesh Power Minister Tanga Byaling appealed to the abductors for Agarwal's early release without any precondition considering his poor health status.

The Central Government will sign a SoO agreement with the NDFB-RD on October 23. A team of MHA officials, along with interlocutor P.C Haldar, will fly to Guwahati to sign the pact. State Home secretary G.D. Tripathi and ADGP, P. Bhattacharya will represent the Assam government and attend the meeting with Daimary.

Two linkmen of the NDFB-IKS, who allegedly helped in the abduction of NHPC General Manager Anil Kumar Agarwal on September 21, on October 18. Sonitpur SP, Arabinda Kalita said that So far five persons have been arrested in connection with the abduction of the NHPC official.

Assam police have claimed to have arrested the alleged mastermind behind the abduction of General Manger of NHPC, AK Agarwal. A joint team of Assam Police and Arunachal Police arrested the alleged mastermind of the kidnapping incident, Anil Tamang from Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. Tamang is a contractor with the NHPC and hails from Tawang. Agarwala still remained untraced since September 21 when he was abducted by NDFB-IKS militants in Assam.

NDFB-IKS has issued a fresh warning to the government saying it would target 'mainstream Indians' if the killings of innocent Bodos is not stopped in other parts of the country. In a press statement, the spokesman of NDFB-IKS, B R Ferenga, said the brutal attack on Raja Basumatary, who hails from Kashikotra village in Chirang District in Bangalore recently, is an example of how the people of the northeast are being targeted by 'mainstream Indians'.

The Central Government has decided to set complete surrender of firearms as a condition for signing SoO agreements with insurgent outfits. The first outfit that could be affected by the new condition will be the NDFB-RD, which will sign a tripartite agreement with the Centre and the State Government on October 23.

Sonitpur District Police were able to trace the location of the abductors of NHPC official Anil Kumar Agarwal, but then lost track since the militants were changing their location frequently.

The NDFB-IKS stated that it is opposed the construction of big dams in Assam and also stated that Police is trying to kill abducted NHPC General Manager, AK Agarwala.

SFs arrested three militants of NDFB-IKS, Naisrang Goyary, Ondla Brahma and Swrang Basumatary, at Titaguri village under Kachugaon Police Station in Gossaigaon sub division of Kokrajhar District.

The Central Government is all set to sign a SoO agreement and start peace talks with the NDFB-RD, on November 9.

Unknown miscreants shot dead a businessman, Debasish Saha (45), at Bhaoraguri under Gossaigaon sub-division of Kokrajhar District. Though no organization has claimed the responsibility, the militant group NDFB-IKS is suspected behind this act. The Spokesman of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferengga in a press statement said that the outfit was not involved in the killing of Debasish Saha and warned not to blame the NDFB without justifying the fact.

SFs, in an encounter, killed a militant of the NDFB-IKS at Damanpur in Sonitpur District.

The 12-hour BTC area bandh call given by the led by NDFB-IKS in protest against the arrest of the President of UGDIMYF, Pwidan Brahma alias Praneswar Brahma, passed off peacefully in Kokrajhar District evoking total response.

Suspected militants of NDFB-IKS ambushed Army troopers of 18 Mahur Regiment at Bhalukjhora under Tipkai Police outpost in Porbatjhora sub-division of Kokrajhar District.

SFs, during search operations, arrested four militants belonging to NDFB-IKS, in Baksa District. The arrested militants have been identified as 'area commander' Bijoy Boro, Farman Boro, Upen Boro and M Sangri. SFs have recovered six grenades, two 7.6 pistols, ten rounds of ammunitions, four mobiles and several extortion notes from the militants.

SFs arrested two militants belonging to NDFB-IKS, identified as Nimol Islary and Sankhang Narzary, from Ouguri in Chirang District.

SFs arrested two NDFB-IKS militants, identified as Daimalu Daimary (25) and Simang Basumatary (20), from Chapaguri and Amguri area in Chirang District.

Police rescued a Bank manager, Mujibur Rahman (28), and arrested eight people, including a woman in this connection from Lumpi in Karbi Anglong District. Rahman was abducted on November 2 from Boko in Kamrup District. The abductors were demanding a ransom of INR 10 million for Rahman's safe release. The abduction was carried out mainly by Priyotoma Basumatary, and her husband Dayal Das, who is a NDFB-RD militant.

A militant of the NDFB-IKS was killed in an encounter with SFs at Baligonga area along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Sonitpur District. SFs recovered a pistol, a hand grenade and some live ammunition from the slain militant.

Joint Secretary in the MHA Shambhu Singh said that Myanmar is not at all interested to take action against the northeastern militants based in that country.

According to the 'Publicity Secretary' B Naijab of NDFB-RD, NDFB-RD has never been involving in any kind of hateful honey traps since October 3, 1986 as claimed by the SSP Anand Prakash Tiwari. Naijab further said there was no NDFB member by the named Doyal Basumatary alias Doyal Das who married one Priotoma Basumatary. "It's a smooth policy of envious Assam Police in order to generate various obstructions in between NDFB [NDFB-RD] and the Government of India and blame NDFB", Naijab said adding that it has no involvement in anti-social activities violating the ground rules as the formal suspension of operation agreement is going to be signed shortly.

Police rescued NHPC General Manager, Anil Kumar Agarwal after 51 days of captivity in the night at Maldang area near Bhalukpong in Assam-Arunachal boundary, Police said. Agarwal was rescued in healthy condition from a dense jungle at Maldang after a fierce encounter which broke out between NDFB-IKS rebels in which, four Police personnel including Sonitpur Superintendent of Police, P Kalita sustained minor injuries when splinters of a grenade hurled by the rebels hurt them, sources said.

Unidentified men shot dead the father-in-law of a NDFB-PTF militant, Pateswar Sangma, (50), at Monglajora market in Parbhatjhora subdivision of Kokrajhar District. Kokrajhar additional Superintendent of Police, Surjit Singh Paneswar said the IK Songbijit faction of National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB-IKS) cadres was suspected to be involved in the killing.

The signing of SoO agreement between the Centre, State Government and the NDFB-RD is likely to be delayed further,. An official source on November 12 said that the signing of the pact is likely to take some time because of problems in cadre verification and surrender of arms. He said the next round of talks between the representatives of the Centre, state government and the NDFB-RD for signing the SoO, which was scheduled to take place here today, had been postponed and a new date had not been fixed yet.

A Police team was ambushed by the NDFB-IKS militants at Maldang Hill along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Sonitpur District. There was however no report of any casualty. Sonitpur, Superintendent of Police (SP) Arabinda Kalita said that the team had gone to Maldang hill on a search operation and found an abandoned camp with a huge quantity of food. The Police suspect that abducted NHPC General Manger Anil Kumar Agarwal might have been kept in that camp for some days. The Police on November 13 handed over Agarwal to his family at Kanaklata Civil Hospital in Tezpur. Agarwal after his rescue from militants on November 12 said,"I am indebted to Assam Police,".

Suspected militants belonging to the Songbijit faction of the NDFB-IKS abducted a trader, Papan Saha Parmanik (38), from Ramfalbil market under Serfanguri Police Station in Kokrajhar District.

SFs arrested four militants of the NDFB-IKS and a linkman along with arms, ammunitions and some incriminating documents during search operation in Chirang District.

SFs arrested an NDFB-IKS, identified as Mithinga Narzary (24), in Chirang district.

SFs arrested two NDFB-IKS militants, Chandan Borgoyari (24) and Rahul Basumatary (24), from Chapaguri area in Chirang District on November 18. A grenade was also recovered from the arrested duo.

The NHPC ruled out any money transaction in getting back its abducted general manager Anil Kumar Agarwal "safe and sound." "We did not give any money to the abductors [NDFB-IKS]. It was the Assam and Arunachal Pradesh government who helped us in getting back our official," said NHPC Project Director, JK Sharma.

NDFB-IKS observed the Bodoland Army Day, an undisclosed location of the neighbouring country. The Bodoland Army is an armed wing of the outfit.

SFs arrested five extortionists on November 20 near the BTC secretariat in Kokrajhar town when they came to collect money from a grocer. The extortionists had demanded INR 500,000 in the name of the NDFB-IKS. Kundus Mondol and Boloram Debnath were arrested on the spot while Sunrata Barman, Prasanta Goswami and Kungkra Goyary were apprehended later.

Speaking at the three day long annual conference of DGP/IGP in New Delhi, UHM Sushilkumar Shinde laid greater emphasis on Paresh Baruah-led ULFA-Independent having "spurned the overtures of the government" for talks than the Arabinda Rajkhowa-led ULFA faction or the Ranjan Daimary faction of the NDFB having come forward for parleys. UHM Shinde, also, said agitation for separate States by various groups had made lower Assam and Karbi Anglong "vulnerable to ethnic and communal" tensions. The interests of Rabhas, Garos, Bodos and non-Bodo fail to reconcile, he added. "Special efforts are required to check the growing mistrust, particularly between Bodos and the non-Bodos in the BTAD and its adjoining areas," he said. The impact of the Bodo-Muslim clashes in the BTAD in 2012 has clearly not been completely resolved. UHM Shinde further added, "In Manipur, the increased targeting of non-Manipuris is an alarming trend". Besides, a "spillover" of violence among Naga rebel outfits like the Isak-Muivah and Khaplang factions of the NSCN has affected peace in Nagaland and in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap, Changlang and Longding Districts, said UHM. Sushil Kumar Shinde also asked Police Forces of the Northeastern States to strictly enforce the ceasefire agreements signed with different militant outfits. This, the minister said, would check the outfits from continuing with their extortion activities that have "affected lives of common people." Shinde said: "Many of these (ceasefire) agreements are being flouted by the militants who are indulging in extortions affecting the lives of common people. Recently, there have been public protests in certain areas against such extortion activities. The State Police forces need to enforce the ceasefire agreements so that relief could be provided to the people."

The NDFB-IKS said that the newly floated armed outfit, NLFB, is formed at the behest of the Government agent to stand against the Bodoland movement. The outfit also denied its hand in kidnapping of trader Amor Debnath of Tulsibari under Bijni Police Station in Chirang District who was kidnapped by unknown miscreants on November 20.

SFs arrested an IK Songbijit faction of NDFB-IKS militant, Thengana Basumatary,at Borigaon village in Udalguri District, reports The Sentinel. SFs recovered a foreign made pistol of 7.62 mm caliber and live ammunition from the militant.

Six persons, including three children, were injured in a grenade blast by suspected NDFB-IKS cadres at Bongaigaon town in Bongaigaon District. The condition of one of the minors, two-and-a-half-year-old Sumit Barman, admitted at a private hospital in Bongaigaon is reported to be critical.

The State Police said the NDFB-IKS was involved in November 25 evening's blast in Bongaigaon town which left six people injured.

SFs, in an encounter, killed two NDFB-IKS militants, identified as Aruna Swargiary, (23) and Topo Brahma (21), at Harinaguri in Kokrajhar District. Two pistols along with live ammunition and two grenades were found on them.

An infant, Sumit Barman (2 years 6months), who sustained serious injuries on November 25 blast at Bongaigaon, succumbed to his injuries at the GMCH. Son of Rohini Barman and Kanaklata Barman, Sumit went to witness the Raas festival along with his grandmother when he and five others were injured in a grenade blast triggered by the suspected NDFB-IKS cadres.

Shallang Police in a joint operation with Guwahati Police Crime Unit, arrested one NDFB cadre, identified as Dhanan Basumatary at Songsak, Shallang in West Khasi Hills District. According to S. Nongtnger, SP, West Khasi Hills, Basumatri came to Shallang on a mission to track coal traders in Shallang for demanding money.

Unidentified men killed a surrendered NDFB militant, Chakramoni Narzary (30), at Audangbazar under Bismuri Police Outpost in Kokrajhar District on November 28. The local people suspected the hands of NDFB-IKS in killing of Chakramoni Narzary (30) alias N Kamfram and said he could have been an informer of the security forces.

The top brass of the State Police got together to chalk out strategies for a new battle in post-militancy period. Despite the fact that every major militant outfit is now in the peace process, barring two small factions of ULFA and NDFB, the MHA extended the term of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in the state for one more year from December 4, under which the state will continue to have the disturbed area tag.

The Centre and the Assam government signed an agreement for SoO with the NDFB-RD in Guwahati. The agreement was signed at the headquarters of the Special Branch of State Police at Kahilipara in the presence of Sambhu Singh, the joint secretary (Northeast) in the MHA. Assam Home Secretary G.D. Tripathi, Additional Director-General of Police (special branch) Pallab Bhattacharyya, ADGP-law and order, A.P. Raut and a six-member delegation of NDFB-RD leaders, led by Daimary, were also present.

The NDFB-PTF strongly condemned the killing of surrendered NDFB (SNDFB) cadre, Chakramani Narzary alias N Kamfram.

Khliehriat Police rescued an abducted coal mine supervisor-cum-grocery dealer and arrested five persons from a forest in Ksiar, East Jaintia Hills, following a raid conducted on November 29. Police sources informed that the arrested persons include Pradip Swargiary, an NDFB cadre, Simala Basumatary, a surrendered NDFB man and three others-Swamkhar Narzary, Pranab Narzary and Molen Mooshahary.

The NDFB-RD, which signed a ceasefire agreement with the Centre and the State Government on November 29, will finalize its agenda for talks shortly. Meanwhile, Ranjan Daimary is trying to persuade the 'Chairman' of the NDFB-IKS to join the peace process. The NDFB-RD a Chairman' admitted that he had recently got in touch with IK Songbijit and tried to persuade him to join the peace process.

SFs arrested a cadre of NDFB-IKS from Jolaishri in Kokrajhar District.

The signing of the ceasefire agreement with the NDFB-RD is likely to improve counter-insurgency operations against the members of the Songbijit faction of the outfit. Highly placed official sources said that the Government has already asked the police and security forces to intensify operations against the members of the NDFB-IKS, who are creating havoc with kidnappings and extortions, particularly in the areas bordering Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh. Sources pointed out that the police and security forces were having trouble in identifying who is a member of the NDFB-RD and who is a member of the NDFB-IKS. But after the signing of the ceasefire agreement with the NDFB-RD, members of the outfit would be lodged in the designated camps and they will be given photo identity cards.

The NDFB-IKS expressed strong resentment over the posters pasted in different places in Porbotjhora sub division of Kokrajhar District asking them to leave Bodoland area and said that there could be some serious conspiracy of the Indian agents to destroy the unity of the indigenous people of the region. In a press statement, the 'Spokesman' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferengga said the news published in the media about the poster of driving out Garos, Rabhas and other indigenous people from BTC area and blame was put on the NDFB.

A mob had beaten up two militants belonging to the NDFB-RD leading to the death of one cadre. The incident occurred at Sengimari area under Krishnai Police Station in Goalpara District. One of the militants, identified as Raban Basumatary, died on the spot, while the other, Kamal Khakhlari, is reported to be critical and is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Goalpara.

One person was killed and another was injured when the SFs resorted to firing on a procession taken out at Kurshakathi in Kokrajhar District under the aegis of the Aboro Surkhasa Samiti against extortion, abduction and killing by NDFB-IKS in BTAD. Some of the people in the procession tried to attack four Bodo youths passing the area which the personnel resisted. The procession then turned violent and attacked the personnel. The deceased has been identified as Hayat Ali (35) while the injured has been identified as Ranjit Das (25). The condition of Mr. Das is stated to be critical.

SFs arrested a female cadre of the NDFB-IKS, Sangita Muchahary (23), at Rangajan Tiniali in Goalpara District. SFs recovered 80 rounds of live 5.56mm cartridges of an Insas rifle from the girl.

Two troopers of the SSB-Civil Wing, Nakul Kumar Medhi and Anil Chandra Yadav, are suspected to have been abducted by the NDFB-IKS from Chirang District, close to the Indo-Bhutan border. The troopers had set off for Kahitama village in the border area of the District to collect intelligence on NDFB-IKS.

Police will soon launch an operation against the NDFB-IKS, a top official said. The decision was taken by police after reports of rampant extortion and abduction by the I.K. Songbijit-led militant outfit in all the four districts of the BTAD. "Five jawans of the civil wing of the SSB, who were engaged in some field work in Chirang district, were abducted by cadres of the NDFB anti-talk faction on December 6.

SFs, in an encounter, killed a suspected militant belonging to NDFB-IKS,identified as Biswajit Basumatary (28), at Daisungjhora in Chirang District. However, the slain militant's family members that said he had gone to his crop field at dawn and claimed he was not a militant. Jayanta Basumatary, 'president' of the Chirang unit of the ABSU also backed the family's claim.

NDFB-IKS has termed the encounter of Biswajit Basumatary as 'fake encounter' by Assam Police and Indian Army.

The recent statement of the NDFB-IKS is a matter of concern as it appeared that they are likely to interfere in the forthcoming 2014 parliamentary elections. 'Spokesman' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferengga, in a press statement sent recently said the outfit was born for the protection of the Bodos and other indigenous tribal communities of the State with their objective to free the Bodos and tribal from the bondage of the foreigners.

The abducted SSB personnel are suspected to have been killed by cadres of the NDFB-IKS. But their bodies have not yet been recovered and operations to locate them are still on. Highly placed security sources told that the information available indicated that the abducted persons, Constables Nakul Medhi and Anil Kumar Yadav, who were members of the unarmed wing of the SSB, were killed. But no one can officially confirm their deaths till the bodies are recovered and operations in the area from where they were kidnapped are still on.

SFs killed two militants belonging to NDFB-IKS at Raidangbari under Runikhata police station in Chirang District. The deceased were identified as Jeremiya Narzary, a Class X student, and Pranjit Narzary, a Class VI student. A Class VII student, Nikodim Narzary, sustained serious injuries and has been sent to the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital.

NDFB-RD, in an emailed statement, said the three youths were innocent and "the army had planted its illegally possessed weapons on the deceased"

The NDFB-IKS alleged the involvement of the Gobinda Basumatary-led NDFB-PTF. In a statement emailed to the media, the outfit's 'spokesperson', B.R. Ferengga, said, "The operation of Raidangbari was led by a member of the NDFB-PTF. We have clear evidence of their participation in the operation with the Indian Army". It warned the NDFB-PTF not to get involved in "dirty games".

State Home Secretary G D Tripathi, while briefing the media about the encounter, said the security forces saw some people moving around suspiciously in Raidwongbari village well after midnight. "When asked to stop, they fired, prompting retaliation. In the process, two persons died and one was injured," he said. Tripathi further said that school records showed the three were below 18 but inquest by a magistrate recorded their age as around 20. "We have reports NDFB Songbijit recently recruited a number of youths below 18. Despite that the government has ordered an inquiry by an additional chief secretary," he said.

The bodies of two troopers of 54 Battalion of SSB were recoverd from Mach Khora under Panbari Police Station of Chirang district. According to Police sources this incident occurred when five SSB troopers, who were in routine patrolling in an area near Hakua river of Chirang District, on December 6, were abducted by NDFB-IKS during that time. Police sources also clarified that three of them were released by the militants and remaining two were taken by them.

The two more bodies were recovered along with the bodies of the two SSB troopers in Chirang District along the India-Bhutan border. "It is more or less confirmed that two of the four bodies were of the abducted SSB personnel. We are awaiting the family members for identification. The other two bodies are a bit older and yet to identified. We suspect it might be of two of the four Bodo persons who went missing in the district about one-and-half months ago," Chirang Deputy Commissioner Virendra Mittal said.

Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said said that he had announced a high level probe into the December 11 encounter incident involving the killing of two NDFB-IKS militants.

The NDFB-PTF denied its involvement in the killing of two minor students at Raidwngbari in Chirang district on December 11 and said they cannot involve in such inhuman act by any means.

SFs arrested a NDFB militant, identified as Nerswn Boro (22), at Barigaon near Tangla in Udalguri District. SFs recovered a 9 mm pistol along with several live ammunition was recovered from his possession.

SFs shot dead a NDFB-IKS militant at Biswanath Chariali area along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Sonitpur District. A Police commando also sustained injuries in the attack.

Unidentified militants shot dead one, Motleb Ali (35), and injured three others at Molandubi village under Kajigaon Police Station in Kokrajhar District. "We suspect the NDFB-IKS," said a Senior Police officer in Kokrajhar.

The October 30 serial blast key accused and NDFB-RD 'Chairman', Ranjan Daimary, who released in June 21 on a conditional bail for six months to initiate peace talks with the government, was granted interim bail for another month. The six month's interim bail was supposed to expire on December 18. The Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) court here that heard Daimary's plea for an absolute bail on December 16 also directed the Government to reply on the matter soon.

Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain on December 16 said that six militant outfits, including ULFA-I and NDFB-IKS, are active in Assam with a cadre strength of 760. Hussain answering on behalf of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, also in charge of Home, said the other outfits are KPLT, KLO, MULTA and HuM -Assam unit.The NDFB-IKS has the highest number of cadre at 300, followed by ULFA-I with 240 militants, KLO has 100, and MULTA and HUJI have 40 each, he said. Altogether 15 underground groups were on ceasefire agreement with the government and their cadres were staying in designated camps across the state, the minister said. These are ULFA (Pro talk faction led by Arabinda Rajkhowa), NDFB-PTF, KLNLF, ACMA, BCF, KRA-Assam, UKDA, AANLA, STF, APA, KLO/KLO HPC-Democratic and NDFB-Ranjan Daimary. Six new extremist organisations were also formed and they are Karbi National Liberation Army, United Peoples Liberation Front, DHD-Action, Dima Jadi Naiso Army, National Liberation Front of Bengali and United Dimasa Kachari Liberation Front.

The Army denied that six jawans were killed in an encounter with NDFB-IKS as claimed by the militant outfit in a section of the media.

The NDFB-IKS questioned if the State Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi can speak on the creation of independent Bodoland on the floor of Assembly if he is really concerned for the issue of NDFB. In a press statement, the 'Speaker' of the NDFB-IKS, BR Ferengga said the political speech of the Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi about peace talk with the NDFB is just showing 'crocodile's tear' in front of the Assembly members. The NDFB is also representative of the Bodo Nation.

SFs rescued a civilian, Nitul Das, at Bamungaon area under Sidli Police Station of Chirang District. The abductors had demanded INR 50,000 for his release. Das was abducted on December 11 by NDFB-IKS rebels.

SFs also arrested two NDFB-IKS militant, identified as Timos Narzary (36) and Sudem Goyari (25) during the rescue operation. Two bikes were also recovered from the duo.

Suspected NDFB-IKS militants, Angan Rao, and three others at Nangalbhanga area in Chirang District. Rao hails from Andhra Pradesh and was working with Power Grid for three months. The abductors released the others but took Rao along with them.

Activities of the NDFB-IKS are a matter of concern, admitted DGP JN Choudhury. He also said that some youths are joining the ULFA-I just to make money and not because of any ideology.DGP, Choudhury said that members of the NDFB-IKS are active in the Districts of Kokrajhar, Chirang and parts of Sonitpur. He admitted that the members of the outfit are targeting even middle and lower income group of people for extortions. He said that though the investigations into the recent blast in Dibrugarh town are on, the needle of suspicion points towards the ULFA-I.

The NDFB-IKS led by Karbi militant leader I K Songbijit is on top of the list followed by the KPLT as leading militant outfits in the State. The Paresh Baruah-led ULFA-I, after its split from the ULFA-PTF led by Arabinda Rajkhowa, has been officially relegated to the third spot among the militant outfits of the state. The ranking is in terms of rebel outfits' striking power.

The NDFB-IKS has the highest number of cadres, about 300, followed by ULFA-I with about 240, while the KLO has around 100 and the KPLT 40. In the state, ULFA-I is present in Goalpara and Tinsukia districts only while the NDFB-IKS is active in the entire BTC belt as well as in Sonitpur District and neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh. The KPLT, on the other hand, is confined to Karbi Anglong district while the KLO is present in Golakganj in Dhubri District and in North Bengal areas.

Villagers armed with bows and arrows are assisting policemen, former BLT and NDFB militants in an operation to bust the forest hideouts of the NDFB-IKS in Jonai sub-division in Dhemaji District.

NDFB-IKS militants set free Battula Ankamma Rao, a civil engineer who was abducted on December 22, 2013, while he was returning from a construction site in Assam from Champa temple of Chirang District.