Army begins operations in Asom, militant killed

Guwahati, June 13 : Troops marched in Asom to assist the civilian administration and liquidated a hardcore terrorist after ULFA unleashed a reign of terror that killed many people and damaged government's installations, including vital oil supply lines.

The government sought the assitance of the Army after the terrorists triggered at least 25 bombings across Asom for past six days in which eight people have died.

Army launched combing operations in four districts of Upper Asom to flush out militants.

A militant was exterminated in an encounter at Narakasur hill near here late last night. The deceased identified as Amal Nath, allegedly masterminded bombings in Guwahati city. This was the first major success of Asom police which has gone into offensive after months of dilly dallying.

The army also swung into action to restore peace.

An army source, however, said it was not a new operation but was more visible considering the mayhem caused by ULFA in the past six days.

The combing operation was intensified in Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sibsagar and Jorhat district.

The Unified Command, the apex body of the counter insurgency operation, raised the point in its recent meeting about the inability of police despite having strong intelligence report.

Army columns have fanned out to Lakhipathar, Charipung, Tinsukia area, which are traditionally considered ULFA dominated areas. Emboldened by the tough talking of Union Home Secretary V K Duggal, the army has also decided to touch Golaghat district.

Meanwhile authorities today rushed more troops in parts of the state where series of bomb attacks killed eight people and wounded 70 others in past 120 hours, police said.

Police blamed ULFA for the attacks, which comes ahead of peace talks between the Centre and rebel representatives scheduled for June 22 in New Delhi. ULFA, hoswever, denied its involvement in the bombings.

With Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi away for last fortnight, the political leadership have shied away from their responsibility leading the state to nearly anarchy situation.

Mr Gogoi is expected here tomorrow. Reports said that he has hurt his back during his long trip and was now getting treatment at AIIMS, New Delhi.

UNI