India: Militant attack in Assam November 1

Event

Suspected United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) militants killed at least five people in Tinsukia district (Assam state) around 20:30 (local time) on Thursday, November 1. According to a witness, the militants fired indiscriminately at a group gathered near the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge. The Trinamool Congress political party indicated it would stage rallies on November 2 in Assam to protest the killings. Similar militant attacks and raids by security forces on suspected militant hideouts, as well as associated political rallies denouncing the killings, are to be expected in Assam in the near-term.

Context

The ULFA has been operating in the northeastern states of India since 1979. The separatist group's primary goal is to achieve a sovereign homeland for Assamese people. ULFA's movement for an independent Assam over the years has led to a heavy Indian military presence in northeastern states of India, such as West Bengal and Assam.

Advice

Individuals in Assam are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.