GUWAHATI, March 18 - Directives have been issued to all the Superintendents of Police (SPs) asking them to keep a close tab on the movement of surrendered militants in view of the ensuing Assembly polls.
The SPs have been asked to reassess the ground situation of the designated camps of various militant outfits, including the ULFA and the NDFB, and ensure that the ground rules of the Suspension of Operation (SOO) are strictly adhered to.
A source at Assam Police headquarters told this reporter that a monitoring mechanism has been put in place in view of the polls amidst fear that the surrendered militants could be employed to secure political edge.
�The SPs have been asked to keep a tab on surrendered militants, besides those under the SOO mode (designated camps). We have asked them (SPs) to maintain a complete list and follow it up with their activities as well in their respective districts so that they cannot have a negative impact on the forthcoming polls,� a top Assam Police official stated, adding, �Any such attempt will be dealt with a firm hand.�
�The SPs have also been asked to act tough against them if their behaviour is found to be in conflict with the laid down guidelines or the ground rules meant for those in the designated camps. The moment anyone � be it the surrendered ones or those staying in the designated camps � are found acting in a manner that could have a negative influence on the ensuing polls, the SPs have been asked to immediately book them,� the source stated.
�As far as the surrendered militants are concerned, police has been asked to verify the residential address of the militants and monitor their movements,� the source pointed out.
�The surrendered militants, from time to time, have been found indulging in various kinds of heinous crimes in the State and a number of such persons had been arrested. A close watch will be kept on the movement of those who are out on bail,� sources added.
�As the weapons are deposited under the double-lock system, use of those is ruled out. However, we have intensified our vigil so that no illegal weapons are used,� a SP posted in Upper Assam told this reporter.
