Extremist group DNLT becomes active in Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong; Security alert ahead of Assam polls

The Dimasa National Liberation Tiger (DNLT), an extremist organisation, has reportedly regrouped and resumed operations in Dima Hasao and eastern and western Karbi Anglong districts, raising concerns over potential unrest in Assam’s hill regions.

Khurang Dimachai, who identifies himself as the group’s Information and Propaganda Secretary, said the DNLT has reorganised with new objectives, aiming to strengthen unity among its members and safeguard the rights, identity, and future of the Dimasa community.

The group is demanding the creation of a separate autonomous state covering Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong districts under Article 244(A) of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Dimachai claimed that the government had promised to implement the formation of the autonomous state prior to the Assembly elections, but the demand remains unfulfilled. He urged local communities to unite in support of the demand.

Security concerns in the region remain high. On February 16, an exchange of gunfire occurred in the Dihakho area under Langting Police Station in Dima Hasao between unidentified militants and a police patrol. The police recovered a live INSAS rifle magazine, bullets, a torchlight, and a bag from the site. Two days later, a youth named Mardip Nunicha was arrested in Hajadisra, Dima Hasao, in connection with the incident.

The reactivation of the DNLT comes amid heightened vigilance by security forces across Assam’s hill districts, particularly ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.