The Assam Rifles has issued a robust rebuttal against allegations surrounding an incident involving the convoy of Mizoram’s Power Minister, Pu F. Rodingliana. Media reports suggested that the paramilitary force deliberately halted the Minister’s vehicle, but Assam Rifles categorically rejected these claims as misleading and detrimental to their reputation. The incident occurred on October 17, 2024, near Zokhawsang, Mizoram, when Assam Rifles set up a Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP) following credible intelligence about illegal war-like stores in the area. According to Assam Rifles, the Minister’s convoy, consisting of four vehicles, was allowed to pass through the checkpoint. However, the convoy voluntarily stopped where routine checks were being conducted on other civilian vehicles. Assam Rifles clarified, “The convoy was given clear passage, and the decision to stop was made by the Minister’s convoy itself.” This statement contradicts media claims of obstruction by the paramilitary force. The organization further noted that important details were omitted from media narratives, particularly concerning the conduct of the Minister’s Public Secretary. Reports indicated that the Public Secretary exited his vehicle, verbally abused soldiers on duty, and forcibly confiscated their body cameras. Additionally, members of the convoy allegedly made inflammatory remarks, including unpatriotic comments urging the soldiers to “go back to India.” Videos from the incident show staff members threatening to cut off the Assam Rifles’ power supply, raising concerns about the motives behind these actions.
In its statement, Assam Rifles condemned the convoy’s actions as a provocation intended to tarnish the organization’s image. “The convoy’s actions, including blocking the road with one of its vehicles, suggest a premeditated effort to escalate the situation,” the statement read. The paramilitary force maintained that its personnel acted with restraint to prevent further escalation. The rebuttal also addressed a prior incident on October 12, where the Minister’s convoy accused an Assam Rifles jawan of misconduct. Media reports suggested that the jawan was intoxicated while on duty and unjustly stopped the Minister’s convoy. Assam Rifles strongly refuted this, emphasizing that the jawan has a commendable 20-year service record and does not consume alcohol for religious reasons. In the earlier incident, the Minister’s convoy reportedly had clearance to pass but voluntarily stopped and forcibly took the jawan into their vehicle. The jawan was released only after intervention from his commanding officer, an act deemed an obstruction of military duties. Assam Rifles defended its operational legitimacy in Mizoram, responding to media speculation regarding its presence in the state without the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). The paramilitary force explained that its responsibilities include guarding the 510 km Indo-Myanmar border and combating illegal activities such as drug trafficking. This year, Assam Rifles has conducted over 130 operations in Mizoram, resulting in the seizure of narcotics worth ₹690 crore.
The organization highlighted its long-standing commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, with numerous successful operations to confiscate arms and contraband. Despite facing challenges, Assam Rifles emphasized its dedication to conducting operations with respect for the local population and minimal disruption to civilians. Expressing disappointment over the actions of the Minister and his staff, Assam Rifles noted its ongoing efforts to maintain harmonious relations with the Mizoram government and local communities. The organization refrained from escalating the previous incident involving the jawan to preserve these relationships. “The Power Minister seems to have acted on his own accord, and the narrative surrounding the incident has been fabricated to undermine Assam Rifles’ efforts to protect the region’s security,” the statement concluded. The recent power outages at Assam Rifles posts in Mizoram, following the October 17 incident, have raised significant security concerns. The paramilitary force warned that such disruptions could jeopardize operational readiness and pose a national security threat, particularly in sensitive border areas. Assam Rifles has called for the restoration of power to its posts across Mizoram and urged relevant authorities to address the issue promptly. “It is crucial that we ensure normalcy for our troops, whose operations are essential for the safety of the state and the nation,” the spokesperson stated.
