Assam Chief Minister Stands Up for Shoot on Sight Directive – A Strong but Divisive Position on Border Security
The recent remark in which the Assam Chief Minister justifies shoot at sight order has become a point of national contention, questioning the balance between law enforcement and human rights. In an area frequently beset by border conflicts, illegal immigrants, and heightened tensions, such an order might appear extreme, but is in the opinion of the Chief Minister, a step towards maintaining peace and guarding sovereignty.
In this blog, we’ll explore the context behind this controversial order, the Assam government’s defense, the political and social response, and what it means for the people of Assam and the broader Indian landscape.
Background: What Led to the Shoot at Sight Order?
Assam has long been a sensitive state in India due to its location, bordering Bangladesh and several other northeastern states.
The region has faced issues like:
Illegal incursion from the other side of the border
Ethnic conflicts
Militancy
Encroachment on forest and government lands
Inter-state boundary conflicts, particularly with Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh
The recent upsurge in border tension between Assam and its bordering states led the Chief Minister to order shoot on sight in places where aggressive encroachment or attack on state officials have been made. The Chief Minister has firmly stated that this order is not for haphazard application but as an extreme measure to save life and state property.
Assam CM Defends Shoot at Sight Order: His Statement
During a press conference conducted in Dispur, the Assam CM stood up for the shoot at sight order and said:
“We will not stand for any attempt to threaten Assam‘s territorial integrity. This is not an open invitation to violence, but an alert to those who attempt to kill our police or grab our land by force. Every bit of Assam belongs to its people and we will fight for it at all costs.”
The CM also pointed out earlier instances where Assam police officers were killed in border clashes or while removing illegal settlers. The shoot-at-sight policy is only a last-resort cautionary measure, not a trigger-happy strategy, according to him.
Public and Political Reaction
The pronouncement that Assam CM justifies shoot at sight order has had varying reactions:
Supporters of the move argue that strong deterrents are required in areas with persistent border violations and attacks on government forces.
Critics see it as a potential violation of human rights, warning that such orders may lead to misuse, particularly against marginalized communities.
Opposition parties, civil rights groups, and international watchdogs have called for a review of the policy, urging that law enforcement must follow due process and maintain accountability.
The CM has replied that police personnel are being strictly briefed and kept under watch to see this order is not abused.
⚖️ Legal Implications: Is the Order Justified?
In India, the police and paramilitary forces can resort to deadly force only in extreme situations — most usually in self-defense or to save from grievous injury.
A shoot at sight order is exceptional and may be kept in place for certain areas like:
Border Security Force (BSF) areas
Naxalite-affected areas
Riot control on a rare occasion
When the Assam CM justifies shoot at sight order, it toes a thin line between state power and judicial scrutiny. Although states have the right to defend their land and citizens, the Supreme Court of India has repeatedly stressed the use of minimum force and accountability mechanisms while employing lethal power.
Border Tensions & Inter-State Clashes: A Growing Concern
The Assam-Mizoram border conflict in 2021, in which some Assam police personnel lost their lives, is still in the public memory. Similarly, conflicts with Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh regarding territorial boundary demarcation and usage of resources have also turned bitter at times.
When Assam CM stands up for shoot at sight order, it‘s not alone but as part of an extended effort to re-establish territorial certainty and control administration. The order has been regarded by the state government as a precautionary step to prevent the loss of security personnel life and terminate armed intrusions.
Impact on Law Enforcement and Security
For Assam Police and paramilitary forces deployed in contested areas, this directive grants them greater powers but also greater responsibilities. A shoot-at-sight directive does not equal open firing — it equals pre-authorized permission to shoot in life-or-death or riot-like circumstances.
The Assam CM in support of the shoot on sight order has assured people that internal monitoring units, human rights cells, and outside review panels shall record every such step under this order.
Public Safety or Authoritarianism? The Ethical Dilemma
One of the most nagging concerns from human rights groups is the ethical dimension of such an order. Is this really about state protection, or is it a slippery slope toward militarized rule?
In defending the shoot at sight order, the Assam CM reiterated that the order is contextual, directed at known flashpoints and not a blanket permit to kill.
Nevertheless, the morality of permitting lethal force in time of peace civilian areas still haunts many. There is a delicate balance between being hard on lawbreakers and protecting the rights of the innocents.
What‘s Next? Potential Outcomes & Recommendations
If the Assam CM‘s shoot at sight order is executed with defined protocols, transparency, and judicial scrutiny, it could serve as an effective deterrent against violent encroachment or armed intrusions.
But not doing it may cause:
Public unrest
Loss of innocent lives
Legal cases in state or supreme courts
International condemnation by rights organizations
It is recommended that the Assam government set up:
Clear SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
Forced video recording of encounters
Independent review committees for each shoot-at-sight case
Access to legal aid for the affected parties
Conclusion
The announcement that the Assam CM stands by shoot–at–sight order is a politically and administratively adventurous step that indicates the gravity of the need to hold the line on border discipline and avoid loss of police lives. Although the motive may have roots in genuine concerns, the application has to be measured, accountable, and compassionate.
As Assam continues to wrestle with its complicated geographic and social terrain, the emphasis has to stay on conversation, law, and order — and not maximum force. Good administration does not necessarily mean taking tough decisions, but that they safeguard each and every citizen in equal measure.
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