By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Three out of the six companies of Central para military forces, deputed to tackle militancy in Garo Hills particularly violent activities of GNLA have arrived in the State and the remaining three more companies will arrive likely next week.
Informing this here on Wednesday, Home Minister Roshan Warjri said that the forces were at the disposal of the state Government and they would be deployed to tackle militancy.
According to Warjri, the forces would be deployed to carry out counter-insurgency operations.
There is a spurt in the militancy related incidents in Garo Hills with the latest being the attack on Williamnagar police station.
Besides, GNLA, the groups active in Garo Hills include ANVC which is currently under ceasefire, its breakaway group (ANVC(B) and United Achik Liberation Army (UALA), the splinter group of ANVC(B)
During the recent meeting of chief ministers held in Delhi, Chief minister Dr Mukul Sangma had demanded the deployment of additional six companies of central para military forces to tackle militancy in Garo Hills. The Centre sanctioned the forces considering the gravity of the situation in Garo Hills.
There are already a few companies of CRPF men under the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) engaged in joint anti-insurgency operations in Garo Hills along with the police.
Deborah for talks with GNLA: Meanwhile, Social Welfare Minister Deborah Marak has called for negotiation with the Garo rebel group GNLA.
Talking to newsmen here in the city on Wednesday, Mrs Marak said, “Negotiation is the only way to bring peace in Garo Hills.” “I believe in discussions,” she said.
Referring to incidences of school dropouts, the Minister said it is a serious challenge before the Government and it has to be tackled seriously to stop youths from joining the militant outfits in the State.
