In a recent statement addressing the spate of encounters in Assam related to ULFA-I links, Assam Congress leader Debabrata Saikia proposed a rather unconventional solution for the Assam Police. Saikia suggested that, alongside their efforts to modernize and revamp the force, organizing Kabaddi matches could be an effective means of preventing escapees from custody.
While injecting a touch of humor into his critique, Saikia indirectly criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam Director General of Police GP Singh. He alleged that the directives from the Chief Minister to carry out encounters may be contributing to a situation where Assam’s youth are being harmed.
Saikia highlighted a recent incident where Assam Police shot five individuals, including Pranjal Das, in Baihata Chariali on suspicion of being ULFA-I members. The injured Das was promptly taken to the hospital for treatment.
The Congress leader raised questions about the legality of such encounters and hinted at a Supreme Court case addressing the issue of extra-judicial killings. The statement underscores growing concerns about the methods employed by the police in dealing with individuals suspected of having links to insurgent groups.
As Assam continues to grapple with security challenges, Saikia’s proposal serves as a reminder of the need for a balanced and lawful approach to law enforcement. The debate over the methods used by the police in encounters and the potential impact on the rights of individuals is likely to persist, prompting a closer examination of the balance between security measures and the protection of civil liberties in the region.
As the state navigates the complex challenge of addressing insurgency while safeguarding individual rights, the comments made by Saikia shed light on the ongoing discourse surrounding encounters and the methods employed by law enforcement agencies. The incident involving Pranjal Das serves as a focal point, prompting a broader discussion on the balance between maintaining law and order and respecting the rule of law.
