Tinsukia : A recent attack by United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) has heightened security concerns in Tinsukia district, with authorities ramping up vigilance ahead of the April 9 Assembly elections.

The March 22 strike targeted the 4th Assam Police Commando Battalion camp at Jagun, where suspected militants fired multiple rocket-propelled grenades during what the outfit described as “Operation Bujoni.” The attack triggered a 20-30 minute gunfight, leaving four commandos injured-three with serious splinter wounds and one with burn injuries.

Following the assault, the attackers reportedly fled towards the Arunachal Pradesh border. The insurgent group later claimed responsibility, describing the attack as retaliation for recent security operations and alleged drone strikes on its camps.

The incident has underscored longstanding security vulnerabilities in Upper Assam, particularly in border regions where difficult terrain and proximity to international boundaries complicate surveillance. Jagun’s location-close to Arunachal Pradesh and within reach of routes leading to Myanmar’s Sagaing region-has historically made it a sensitive zone for insurgent movement.

In response, security forces have placed the district on high alert. Joint operations involving the Assam Police, Central Reserve Police Force, Assam Rifles, and Arunachal Pradesh Police are currently underway to track down those responsible and secure vulnerable pockets.

Senior officials said coordinated efforts are being intensified to ensure a safe environment for polling. The district police emphasised inter-agency synergy, highlighting ongoing collaboration between central armed police forces and state units.

Harmeet Singh visited the attack site and met the injured personnel, assuring strict action against those involved. “We will take all necessary legal measures,” he said, adding that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Security planners face multiple challenges as polling approaches, including securing remote and scattered polling stations, monitoring cross-border militant movement, and preventing voter intimidation or extortion attempts. Intelligence gathering and round-the-clock surveillance have been intensified, particularly in forested and riverine areas along the interstate boundary.

With preventive deployments, reinforcements, and continuous review meetings in place, authorities say efforts are focused on ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted peacefully despite the prevailing insurgency concerns.

Assam will go to polls in a single phase on April 9, with counting scheduled for May 4.