AR condemns the claims of TSA

19th November 2018:

Assam Rifles condemns the alleged claims of TSA Secretary Mr Michael Lamjathang Haokip, of being man handled by Assam Rifles troops, as published in various newspaper on 17 November and 18 November 2018. The Assam Rifles Vehicle Check Post at Tengnoupal is established primarily for checking and seizure of any illegal drugs or other illegal products viz, arms, wildlife and forest products, gold etc. with a purpose to maintain peace and tranquility in the district and for welfare of the society at large.

The allegations made by Mr Michael Lamjathang Haokip are baseless and discouraging. On 12 Nov at around 4.30 pm, Mr Haoki reached vehicle check post in his vehicle and without giving due respect and empathizing with the plight of the locals and tourists waiting for their turns to get checked, he jumped the checking line, ignoring the discomfort being caused to senior citizens, ladies and children waiting in queue and argued with the Assam Rifles soldiers on duty to give him priority, as he being a powerful person and Secretary of TSA.

The solider on duty most politely conveyed Mr Haokip that other persons are waiting in queue since long hence he should wait for a while. Showing his high headedness and throwing his weight around, Mr Haokip refused to do so and told the non-English speaking solider to converse in English, the solider understanding his request called the English speaking solider to understand and resolve Mr Haokip’s problem.

However, Mr Haokip was adamant on being given priority over the people in waiting and be left early. The solider as being trained, most politely denied his request and appealed him to be in line. Mr Haokip took the refusal to his ego and on 13 November 18 he met the Commandant 12 Assam Rifles with his complaint in the presence of SP Tengnoupal and after due verification was apprised of no wrong doing by the soldier on duty.

Assam Rifles has always been instrumental in installing peace and tranquilly in the region. For its relentless efforts in preventing and discouraging illegal activities and maintenance of peace in the Tengnoupal district, the battalion has been appreciated by the locals, State Government and State agencies viz, DRI, NAB and Forest department.

Such allegations and statements in public malign the image of Assam Rifles and discourages the soldiers in uniform who are committed to serve the nation and society above their own self-interest.