Assam Decides to Act Tough Against Radical Group Veer Lachit Sena

Mr Sarma told reporters,“Veer Lachit Sena has been vitiating the atmosphere in the name of cultural activities and donation drives. They are also polluting the business atmosphere. If necessary, we may have to consider a ban, just like outlawing Ulfa-I.”

Pointing out that members of the organisations issuing derogatory remarks publicly are under the scanner of the government, the chief minister said, “I am not taking any names, but action will be taken against them.” Regretting the intolerant behaviour of the organisations under the banner of social or cultural banners,he said that the group has been extorting money, assaulting individuals, and disturbing the state’s peace. “We will not permit anyone to disrupt peace and harmony under any pretext,” he asserted.

Security sources said that the government has decided to take stern steps after a sensational kidnapping of a businessman in Guwahati on Sunday by individuals associated with Veer Lachit Sena for extortion.

In a swift late-night operation, Dispur Police rescued Rahul Mishra, who had been abducted from outside Pratiksha Hospital in the city’s Borbari area. The incident occurred around 9:30 PM when Ershad Khan from Goalpara alerted the police that his friend had been forcibly taken away by a group of 10–15 unidentified persons.

Police said that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of ₹15–20 lakh. Acting promptly, police tracked the suspects to Tribeni Path, where Mishra was found confined inside two vehicles — a Hyundai i20 (AS01 EM 0718) and a Bolero (AS23 Q 3566).

Six suspects were apprehended on the spot, while two others were captured later during extended operations. Preliminary interrogation of the arrested individuals has revealed possible links to the Veer Lachit Sena members, though police have refrained from confirming any direct organisational involvement at this stage.

Security sources said that the state government has taken serious note of repeated complaints involving the Veer Lachit Sena’s alleged extortion drives and frequent intimidation to various business houses in the state.

Pointing out that multiple reports have surfaced accusing the outfit of coercing individuals and businesses into making “donations” under the guise of cultural or social initiatives, security sources said that surveillance and intelligence operations have been intensified across Guwahati and adjoining districts to identify and monitor individuals connected to such groups.