Two ULFA cadres killed, Govt firm on ''tax''

Guwahati, Sep 25 (UNI) The security forces today killed two more ULFA militants and arrested as many in the ongoing stepped up counter-insurgency operation even as Government vowed to stop ''ULFA tax on all Indians''.

According to an official report, one ULFA cadre was killed at Pengeri and another one at Chabua, while two others were arrested from Pengari of Tinsukia district of Upper Asom.

The slain ULFA cadre was identified as Mohipal Maran, while the arrested were Durga Sonowal and Arup Sonowal. There was also report of five armymen getting injured in the encounter, which took place at Ratanipthar at around 1230 hours.

Meanwhile, in Guwahati Chief Secretary K S Kabilan announced that none would be allowed to collect ''tax from every Indian''.

The ULFA yesterday announced imposition of mandatory tax on ''every Indian earning bread in Asom and voluntary tax from indigenous people.'' '' We shall not allow anyone to take law into their hands, '' he said.

Mr Kabilan was the head of the Unified Command looking after the counter-insurgency operation in the state.

Last night, ULFA 'corporal' Diganta Baruah, alias Bitupan Baruah, was killed and 10 others, including nine Army personnel, were injured, in a fierce encounter at Lakhipathar in Upper Asom's Tinsukia district.

Another injured militant, however, managed to escape.

The injured Army personnel, including Lt K D Rathore, were admitted to Dinjan Army hospital.

Eds: Pls pick up suitably from earlier series.

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