Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday issued a strong warning against the Veer Lachit Sena, stating that the state government is actively considering stern action, including a possible ban, on the organisation accused of intimidation, extortion and creating public unrest. Speaking to reporters in Guwahati, the Chief Minister said the outfit has been operating under the pretext of cultural activities while engaging in practices that disturb public order and harm the environment.
“Veer Lachit Sena has been creating a disturbing atmosphere in the name of cultural programmes and donation drives. They are also causing environmental damage. If necessary, we may have to consider a ban, just like in the case of ULFA(I),” Sarma said. He added that certain individuals linked to the organisation are already under law-enforcement scrutiny, though he refrained from naming anyone specifically. “Action will follow,” he stated firmly.
The warning comes amid an ongoing investigation into a kidnapping in Guwahati on Sunday night, an incident that has brought the outfit under renewed public and administrative focus. In a swift response, Dispur Police rescued a man who had been abducted from outside Pratikshya Hospital in Borbari. The victim, Rahul Mishra, was reportedly taken by a group of 10 to 15 people, who then demanded a ransom of ₹15–20 lakh for his release.
Police tracked the kidnappers to Tribeni Path, where Mishra was discovered inside two vehicles. Six suspects were arrested at the spot, and two more were taken into custody later the same night. During the operation, police seized several items, including baseball bats, a knife and documents purportedly connected to Veer Lachit Sena. While investigators have not officially confirmed a direct organisational role, preliminary interrogations have indicated links between some of the accused and individuals associated with the group.
Sources in the Home Department said the government has been monitoring repeated complaints that Veer Lachit Sena has been collecting money through coercion under the guise of cultural or social initiatives. Reports of intimidation and forced “donations” from business owners and citizens have been growing in recent months.
Senior police officials have intensified surveillance in Guwahati and neighbouring districts to identify individuals associated with such activities. The Chief Minister reiterated that the state will not tolerate any attempt to undermine law and order. “No organisation or individual will be allowed to create fear in society or take the law into their own hands. We will ensure peace and harmony at any cost,” he said.
Investigations into the kidnapping case are ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the alleged network and possible wider links.
