Police chief speaks on human rights

Complaints of human rights violation are very common now days. Allegations and counter allegations are pouring almost every day from various corners of the northeastern region. The root cause of such violations is the growing militancy in the area. In order to curb militant activities the security forces have to do combing operations in different part of the region. The militants some how try to establish their hideouts in the interior areas.

In order to escape from the clutches of security forces the ultras engage themselves in firing on their targets, the security forces. The security forces, in retaliation, though take every care to protect civilians a few incidents of casualty occur, when innocent lives are lost. Certain organizations trying to be in the news, take full advantage of such incidents, and blame security forces for such incidents.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in cooperation with Assam Human Rights Commission (AHRC) recently organized a seminar in Guwahati, on the 'Social justice and human rights and 21 st Century". Speaking on the occasion RN Mathur, Director General of Police (DGP) Assam, lashed-out at such organizations having soft corner for the militants and accuse security forces for violation of human rights. He ridiculed that such organizations organizing protest rallies against the killing of innocent persons, but do not protest against the killings of a number of innocent people by the militants. The militants encouraged by the silence of these organizations continue their subversive activities. He alleged that these organizations support militant activities 'over ground'. He cautioned the people to be aware of the gamelan of these organizations and reiterated that human rights are for every one. It is equally applicable to the security forces.

However, the DGP appreciated the people of the state for growing awareness about human rights and their protest against incidents of rights violation. He claimed that cases of rights abuse by the security forces were gradually on the decline.

Restoring the commitment of the police forces to protect human rights, he said, all efforts would be futile if certain organizations eager to get political mileage make it their agenda to tarnish the image of security forces by making false allegations against them. He also appreciated the steps taken by some Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) who stood by the peace loving peoples of the state.