GUWAHATI: Congress Rajya Sabha MP from Assam Ripun Bora termed the travel advisory issued by the Assam government for the people of the state who will visit Mizoram as unfortunate.
After the recent border clash at Cachar that claimed the lives of six Assam police personnel, the Assam Government on Thursday issued a travel advisory while visiting the neighbouring state.
Expressing displeasure over the step, the Congress MP said to media outside the Parliament, "It is unfortunate that the Assam government has issued such a travel advisory. It is rare because generally, government issues such advisories while visiting restive foreign countries. But we (Assam and Mizoram) both are two states of the same country."
Bora also added that he has demanded a discussion on the Assam-Mizoram issue in Parliament. "I have been demanding a discussion on the Assam-Mizoram issue. Even I have moved an adjournment motion in the floor to discuss the issue especially." he further said.
Several organisations in the Barak Valley have reportedly, imposed an 'economic blockade' against Mizoram after the neighbouring state police indiscriminately fired upon the personnel of the Assam police.
The advisory states, There have been several cases of violent skirmishes in the border area of Assam and Mizoram; These skirmishes have occurred recently in the 3 (three) districts of Assam namely- Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi; the latest skirmish was on 26-07-2021 in the district of Cachar led to indiscriminate firing on the police personnel as well as civilians on Cachar side; In the process 6 (six) policeman lost their lives and scores of policeman and civilians were seriously injured. Even after this incident certain Mizo Civil Society, students and youth organisations are constantly issuing provocative statements against the state of Assam and its people. It has been reliably learnt from video footage available with Assam Police, that many civilians are heavily armed with automatic weapons etc. In view of the above and with the purpose of ensuring safety and security, a Travel Advisory is hereby issued to all the people of Assam:
1. Given the critical prevailing situation, the people of Assam are advised not to travel to Mizoram as any threat to the personal safety of the people of Assam cannot be accepted.
2. People of Assam, staying in Mizoram due to work-related compulsion, should exercise utmost caution.
These Advisories will come into force with immediate effect and be given publicity for wider public knowledge and adherence.
Also Watch: