In the matter of National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) Report of the Tribunal REPORT

REGD. NO_D. L.-33004/99

The Gazette of India

EXTRAORDlNARY

PART II—Section 3—Sub-section(ii)

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY

No. 398] NEW DELHI, TUESDAY, APRIL 30, 2002/VA1SAKHA 10, 1924

1378 GI 2002

(1)2_ THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3 ( U )|

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IA8 GI\500S18 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(ii)] J9THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(II)1 TA22 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY |PARI II—SEC 3(ii)|

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(N. E. Division)

NOTIFICATION

New Delhi, the 30th April, 2002

In the matter of National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT)

and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) Report of the Tribunal

REPORT

S.O. 471(E).—By a notification of Ministry of Home Affairs published at New Delhi on 19th October, 2001 in the Gazette oflndia (Extraordinary) Central Government in exercise ofits power conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967) (hereinafter referred to as the Act) declared, National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) as unlawful associations. The said notification reads as under :—

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

NOTIFICATION

New Delhi, the 3rd October, 2001

S.O.986(E) - Whereas the National Liberation Front of Tripura (hereinafter referred to as the NLFT) has its professed aim, to establish an independent 'Borokland Twipra" by liberation of Tripura from India through armed struggle in alliance with other armed secessionist organisations of Tripura'and incite indigenous people of Tripura, for secession and thereby the secession of Tripura from India;

And whereas the All Tripura Tiger Fores (hereinafter referred to as the ATTF) has its professed aim, the formation of a separate nation of seven sisters comprising Tripura, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Arunanchal Pradesh resulting in bringing about the secession of the said States from India, in alliance with other ermed secessionist organisati< s of the North East region and to carry on armed struggle for separation of these _J3 States from India and thereby secession of these States from India;]

And whereas, the Central Government is of the opinion that the NLFT and ATTF have -

(i) been engaging in subversive and violent activities, thereby undermining the authority of the Government and spreading terror and violence among the people for achieving its objective;

(ii) established linkages with other unlawful associations, viz., the Isak Swu faction of National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCNCI/M)], the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) and Meitei extremist outfits of Manipur with the aim of mobilising their support;

(iii) in pursuance of its aim and objective in the recent past, engaged in several violent and unlawful " activities which are prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India;

And whereas, the Central Government is also of the opinion that" their violent and unlawful activities include -

(a) killing of civilians and personnel belonging to the Police and Security Forces;

(b) extortion of "funds from tho public including businessmen and traders in Tripura;

(c) procuring large number of arms and ammunitions, including sophisticated ones, through clandestine "or illegal channels and inducting them secretly into Tripura through a neighbouring country;

(d) establishing' and maintaining camps in a neighbouring country for the purpose of safe sanctuary', training procurement of arms and ammunitions, etc.

(e) establishing and maintaining linkages with24 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART H—SEC. 3(ii)l other Tripura tribal extremist groups for causing and fomenting communal clashes between the tribal and non-tribal communities in Tripura;

And whereas, the Central Government is of the opinion that the aforesaid activities of the NLFT and the ATTF are detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India arid that they are unlawful associations;

Now, therefore," in "exercise of the powers conferred by Sub-Section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby declares the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) as unlawful associations;

And whereas, the Central Government is also of the opinion that if there is no immediate curb and control, the NLFT and the ATTF will take the opportunity to -

(i) mobilise their cadres for escalating their secessionist, subversive, terrorist and violent activities;

(ii) propagate anti-national activities in collusion with forces inimical to India's sovereignty and" national integrity;

(lii) indulge in increased killings of civilians and targeting of the Police and Security Forces personnel;

(iv) procure and induct more illegal arms and ammunitions from across the international border;

(v) extort and collect huge funds from the public for their activities.

And whereas, the Central Government, having regard to the above circumstances, is of the firm opinion that it is necessary to declare the NLFT and the ATTF as unlawful associations with immediate effect; and accordingly in exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to sub-Section (3) of the said Section 3, the Central Government hereby directs that this notification shall,25 subject to .any order that may be made under Section 4 of the said Act, have effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

SURENDRA KUMAR, Jt.Secy.

Since in terms of the Act, a reference has to be made to the Tribunal for the purposes of adjudicating whether or not there was sufficient cause for declaring the aforesaid associations, namely, National Liberation Front of Tripura and All' Tripura Tiger Force as unlawful associations, the Government of India issued a notification dated 19th October ," 2001 under sub-section CD of Section 5 of the Aot constituting this Tribunal for the purposes of adjudicating whether or not there was sufficient cause of declaring the National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force as unlawful associations. The said notification reads as under:-

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

NOTIFICATION

New Delhi, "the 19th October, 2001

S.0.1054(E).— In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section'(1 ) of Section 5 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby constitutes "The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal" consisting of Shri Justice S.K.Mahajan, Judge of Delhi High Court, for the purpose of adjudicating whether or not there is sufficient cause of declaring the All Tripura Tiger Force and" National Liberation Front of Tripura, as unlawful associations.

SURENDRA KUMAR, Jt .Secy .( N .E . ) 1378 GI/2002-426 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDlNARY | PAK I II— Sw 1(ii)J The object of declariny the aforesaid organisations as unlawful associations under the Act was that these organisations were espousing secession of Tripura from the Union of India and to achieve this objective they were continuing to indulge in.

secessionist, subversive, violent and terrorist activities.. The said organisations with a view to achieve their secessionist aims and objectives had adopted separate Constitutions providing for a separate "people's republic Government' with the trappings of a civilian set-up. They had also maintained separate armed wing with a hierarchical setup on the pattern of the regular army and were equipped with a large number of weapons, including sophisticated weapons. It was the case of the Government that since their formation the National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force were responsible for a large number of subversive activities including attack on police and paramilitary forces, looting of arms and ammunitions, violence against civilians, kidnappings and extortion and they were continuing to procure arms and ammunition by illegal means. Their secessionist activities were threatening the sovereignty and integrity of the country, disturbing public order, thwarting development of the State and creating terror among the people. They were Imposing heavy extortion on the people and government JL employees through tax notices. It was also the case of the Government that Tripura was facing low key insurgency for the last 20 years. Though around 20 armed tribal groups had been identified on ground, only 2 of them (ATTF and NLFT) were responsible for majority of killings and had ©ome ideological mooring with main activities remaining confined to murders, looting, extortions, abductions, etc. for monetary gains. Broadly, the entire Tripura Tribal Area Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) area, having dense jungles and predominated by trlbals, was affected by violence perpetrated by tribal extremists and miscreants. The violence was mostly targeted against pon-tribals. Areas falling outside TTAADC, predominated by nbn-tribals (Bengalis), were much less affected.

The violence and extortion by both the NLFT and ATTF had been continuing despite declaration of 29 police stations in the State as fully or partially disturbed.

In fact, violence by the NLFT, which has been going up steadily, reached an all time high during 2000, In which 216 persons were killed by the NLFT and 484 others were abducted in ^91 incidents of violence. The communal content of the NLFT violence has also shown a significant increase. The ATTF violence, which was showing a

declining trend in previous years, has ohown ar.

increasing trend In the year 2001. Both the outfits have2S THE GAZETTE OF INDIA. EXTRAORDlNARY (PART II—SKC. 3(ii)l been advocating ouster of non-tribals, particularly Bengalis, from Tripura. The attacks by the cadres of these outfits are mainly directed against non-tribals, giving rise to frequent ethnic clashes and tensions on the slightest provocation. Very strong under current of tribal-non-tribal tension continues in the state duo to activities of these militant outfits.

There had been increase in violence by these two outfits since 1997 as per details given below:

No.of persons (Security Forces/Police)

Year killed by

ATTF NLFT

1997 95(-) 116(44)

1998 38(1) 149(21)

1999 42(7) 154(33)

2000 23(4) 216(11)

2001 47(9) 170(26)

The ATTF and NLFT are the two main organised terrorist groups, with the former demanding a separate state of 'tribal land* and th© latter still espousing liberation of Tripura.

The ATTF, which was formed in mid 1993, has a membership of around 150 hardcore armed cadres and is led _29 by Ranjit Debbarma. It is active in whole of Dhalai district; Khowai, Kalyanpur , Teliamura, Jirania, Takarjala and Sidhai PS areas of West Tripura district; Kailashahar , Fatikroy and Kanchnapur PS area of North Tripura district; and Birganj, R.K.Pur, Taidu and Ompi PS areas of South Tripura district.

Th© NLFT, which was formed in 1989, is led by Biswa Mohan Debbarma and has about 200 hardcore armed cadres. It is known to have areas of influence in whole of Dhalai district, Kalaynapur and Takarjala PS areas of West Tripura district; Kanchnapur and Vaghman PS areas of North Tripura district; and Birganj, Taidu, Nutan Bazar, Shantirbazar and Ompi PS areas of South Tripura district. The declaration of 19 police stations in Tripura as disturbed areas In February, 1997 and more areas subsequently has not in any way affected the activities of the NLFT. Rather, the outfit has boon able to further strengthen its hold in different areas and emerge as the major terrorist group in Tripura.

Both the ATTF and NLFT" have training camps and hide outs in Bangladesh and have been using the Bangladesh territory frequently for taking shelter after indulging in major incidents of violence. Most of tho;jo incidents have been planned in and executed' from Bangladesh soil. They have acquirod a sizeable number of sophisticated weapons and aro known to be maintaining30 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(ii)l close links with other North-East Insurgent groups.

Recent reports indicate a growing nexus between the NLFT and NSCN(I/M) on the one hand and the ATTF and ULFA on the other In their operations in Tripura.

These tribal extremists/armed miscreants have shown little hesitation in attacking Police/Security Forces and innocent non-tribals (particularly Bengalis) with a view to forcing them to leave Tripura. M O SL of the victims of the terrorists are non-tribals, particularly Bengalis. This has caused wide schism between the tribals and non-tribals in the State leading to volatile ethnic situation, which gives rise to ethnic clashes on slightest provocation.

It was further the case of the Government that despite the above two organisations having been banned for a period of four years, the tribal insurgency remained the most serious security concern in Tripura.

Both the National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force continue to resort to massive mobilisation of funds by unlawful tax collections, extortion and even kidnapping and abduction for ransom.

The Constitution of the National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force specifically speak of secession of Tripura from India by demanding separate State of tribal land as their ultimate objective.

Both the aforesaid organisations were banned31 for the first time in 1997. However, despite the ban, the said organisations have continued their insurgent activities causing serious security concern in Tripura.

The Government was, therefore, of the opinion that there was justification-for fresh notification to continue the ban on these organisations for a further period of two years with effect from 3rd October, 2001. The present notification dated 3rd October, 2001 was, therefore, issued declaring both the aforesaid organisations, namely. National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force as unlawful associations with immediate effect in exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to sub-section (3) of Section 3 of the Act and reference was made to this Tribunal for adjudicating whether or not there was sufficient cause for declaring the said organisations as unlawful associations under the Act. The following factors were taken into consideration by the Government for deciding further extension of ban=- "i) Continued espousal of the policy of secession of Tripura from the India by the NLFT and formation of a separate nation of seven sisters by the ATTF;

ii) Continued engagement in activities prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India;

iii) Continued adoption of violence and terror through armed action as means for achieving their objective;

iv) High levels of extortions and illegal tax32 T HH G A Z E ' I TE OF I N D IA FA I R A O R D I N A RY J I ' \ M II Si • " u )\ collections from tho public including businessmen, traders and even Cover nrnunt employees;

v) Links and support to other North-East insurgent groups'. While the NLFT has developed links with the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland [NSCN(I/M)], tho ATTF has developed links with the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) and the Meitel extremist groups of Manipur;

vi ) Continued maintenance of sanctuaries, safe havens a'nd training camps in neighbouring Bangladesh;

vii) Procurement of large 'number of sophisticated arms and ammunition through clandestine channels or by snatching from various security forces . "

On reference being received and on being ^tisfied after hearing the representatives of the Government and on perusal of the material produced before the Tribunal, notices were issued to both National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force under sub-section (2) of Section 4 of the Act. Notices were directed to be served in" the same manner as the notification banning National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force were served by the Central Government i.e. through the Daily National and local newspapers circulated and" published in Tripura as well as by broadcasting on radio and television. Notices were also directed to be served by pasting.the same on the Notice Board of the office of each District Magistrate/Tehsildar at the Headquarters of the District13 or Tehsil, as feasible. Notices were also directed to be served by publication in a daily -newspaper circulated in the locality where these organisations had their establishments or presence was known in the State of Tripura and outside. On 20th December, 2001 when the Tribunal had its sitting In Delhi, it was brought to the notice of the Tribunal that notices were duly served upon both the organisations by publication in the newspapers "Dainik Sambad" of 24th November, 2001; "Desher Katha" of 23rd November, 2001; "Bha"bi Bharat" of 23rd November, 2001 and "Tripura Observer" of 24th November, 2001.

Notice was also arranged to be served through the local stations of All India Radio and Doordarshan through its various bulletins and vide publicity was given to the notices by affixation at the conspicuous parts of the office of the District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrates and Block Development Officers. After hearing learned counsel~for the State of Tripura and the Union of India, the Tribunal was satisfied that since no known address of the banned organisations was available with the Departments, the service by publication in the newspapers and through" the 'All India Radio, television and by affixation was proper service upon the said organisations. As no one was present on behalf of these organisations, the Tribunal proceeded with the matter < r\ their absence and directed both the State Govt nmont as 1378 GI/2002—5Q __^___ THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PARI II—SEC.3(JJ)| well as the Union of India to file affidavits by way of evidence in support of their contentions justifying the ban on the aforesaid two organisations.

Affidavits were duly filed on behalf of State of Tripura as well as Government of India and in the hearing held on 4th February, 2002 it was directed that the Tribunal will hold further hearing in the matter at Delhi on 8th March, 2002 and at Agartala on 16th and 18th M a r c h, 2 0 0 2. However, in the hearing held at Delhi on 8th March, 2 0 0 2, the dates fixecl earlier for hearing at Agartala were changed and it was directed that the evidence will be recorded and hearing will be held at Agartala from 21st to 23rd March, 2 0 0 2. On 22nd March, 2002 the Tribunal held its sitting at Agartala and recorded the evidence of eight witnesses which include Mr.K.Ambuly, Jt .Secretary '( Home )~, Government of Tripura;

Mr.Ram P h a l, Under Secretary ( H o m e ), Government of India;

Mr.Manish Kumar, District Collector, West Tripura;

Mr.Anurag, Superintendent of Police, West Tripura;

Mr.A.Nath, Addl. Superintendent of Police, Rural West D i s t r i c t, Tripura; Mr.Nandlal D a s, Sub-Inspector of P o l i c e, Kachucherra, P.S.Ambassa, Dhalai District, Tripura; Mr.M.L.Majumdar, Addl. Superintendent of Police, C.I.D.. Tripura and" Mr.Jitendra Debbarma, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Kailashahar, North Tripura.

Mr .K.Ambuly, Joint'Secretary (Home), Government of Tripura on affidavit stated that both NLFT and ATTF have continued to espouse oecession of Tripura from the Union of India as their aim and objective, and to achieve thia objective, they were continuing to indulge in secessionist, subversive, violent and terrorist activities. The constitutions of both the NLFT and ATTF speak of secession from the Indian Union as their objectives. According to Mr.Ambuly, Tripura, formerly a princely state, was integrated into the Union of India in October, 1949. After Its merger, Tripura became an integral part of India. According to Mr.Ambuly, to achieve their secessionist aims and objectives, ATTF and NLFT have adopted a separate constitution providing for a separate 'people's republic Government' with the trappings of a civilian setup. They have also maintained separate armed wing with a hierarchical setup on the pattern of the regular army. They are equipped with a large number of weapons, including sophisticated weapons.

It was also stated that since their formation, the NLFT and ATTF have been responsible for a large number of subversive activities. The activities include attack on police and paramilitary forces, looting of arms and ammunitions, violence against civilians, kidnappings and extortion. They also appear to continue to procur* arms and ammunition by illegal means. With the objective36 _ THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(ii)] of achieving their professed aim of establishing an independent 'Borokland Twipra' by 'liberating' Tripura from the Indian Union, the NLFT and ATTF have been indulging in various secessionist and subversive activities aiming at threatening the sovereignty of the country, disturbing public 6"rder~thwarting development of the State and creating terror among the people.

The ATTF and 'NLFT impose heavy extortion on the people and Government employees through 'tax notices'.

ATTF and NLFT indulge in large number of violent and criminal incidents. Gist of reports on major crimes committed by NLFT and ATTF' outfits is given below:-

£ R I M E? COMMITTED BY N . L . F . T. PVBIMfiJQJLJCEflB__2fiflfi

On 1.1.2000, at about 1730 hrs., 14/15 unknown NLFT extremists raided the village Kashi Chandra Para under Taidu Police Station (PS) AND KILLED RABI DE8BARMA, (60) S/0 Late Ananta Debbarma and set fire to the house of the deceased and others. As a result 6 huts were gutted. The extremists assaulted 10 tiibal persons of Kashi Chandra Para causing injuries to them. (Taidu PS Case No.1/2000 U/S 148/149/325/302/436 IPC, 27 Arms Act & 13 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act).

On 8.1.2000, at about 1230 hrs. a group (13/14) of NLFT extremists detained Asharambari bound passenger jeep (TRT-2327 ) at West Karangicherra, PS22 Khowai and set fire to it. When the passengers started running the extremists open fire upon them. As a result, 5 passengers namely ( 1) Narayan Das (34) S/0 Lt.Nripendra Das ( 2) Manik Soutal (38) S/0 Lt.Dukhal Soutal , (3) Ramlal Gour (28) S/0 Lt.Megnath Gour , ( 4) Monoranjan Sabar (30) S/0 Lt.Tobra Sabar and ( 5) Lolu Das (22) (Driver of TRT-2327) S/0 Lt .Gosai Gobinda Das, all of Ashararnbari , PS Khowai died. 6 more passengers, all residents of Asharambari sustained grievous injuries and were shifted to Khowai Hospital. (Khowai PS Case No.2/2000 U/S 148/149/302/307/427 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 12.1.2000, at about 1430 hours a group of NLFT extremists detained a Silachari bound passengers bus (TRS-1511) at Alutola on Natunbazar-Silachari road, PS Nutanbazar and gunned down on Narayan Choudhury (50) S/0 Lt.Bipin Choudhury of Gorakappa, PS Sabroom. The extremists also kidnapped one passenger namely Ranjit Shil (45) S/0 Lt. Gobinda Shil of Mailak, PS Birganj.

Due to firing one Smt. Arati Karmakar of Gorakappa, PS Sabroom sustained injury on her person. The extremists also snatched away ornaments, cash, etc. from said Smt.

Karmakar. (Nutanbazar PS Case No.1/2000 U/S 396/364(A) IPC & 27 of Arms Act.

On 28.1.2000, at about 1030 hrs. 6 unknown NLFT extremist fired at the vehicle of Police Circle Inspector, Takarjala at Tufaniamura, PS Takarjala while38 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PAR, II—SI-;C.3(II)| he along with his security staff were corning towards Bishalgarh. The staff repulsed the attack by firing £ rounds. No casualty was reported. (Takarjala PS Case No.5/2000 U/S 307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act.

On 12.2.2000, around 1830 hrs. 7/8 NLFT extremists raided the house of Sachindra Namasudra of South Mechuria, PS Salema and kidnapped 4 persons namely ( 1) Debendra namasudra, S/0 Dinosh Namasudra (2) Tapar Namasudra S/0 Girindra'Namasudra (3) Manmohan Namasudra S/0 Girinda Namasudra ( 4) Prahallad Namasudra S/C Rajendra Namasudra all of South Mechuria, PS Salema.

CSalema PS Case No.7/2000 U/s 364(A) IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 18.2.2000, around 1010 hrs. 7/8 extremists killed on Dhirendra Kr.Nath, S/0 Lt .Joygobinda Nath of Jhore hat, PS Bhorehut, Assam, the Manager of Gournagar Tea Estate and injured two others namely ( l) Smti Bindu Rani Nath W/o Lt .Dhinreridra Kr.Nath and ( 2) Shri Lal Mohan Kabir Phanti S/0 Raj Kumar Phanti, Driver Gournagar Tea Estate when they were performing their duties at Tea Estate (Dharamanagar PS Case No.13/2000 U/S 365/302/325 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 5.5.2000, at about 2200 hrs. a group (7/8) of NLFT extremists raided the house of Gopal, Majumdar of East Charakbai, PS Baikhora and opened fire causing injuries to Nepal Majumder, brother of Gopal Majumder who39 was admitted to Mahuripur PHC . The extremists also kidnapped Ranjit Ma jurnder, srnti Saraswati Majumdor and Smti Sephali Nama all residents of East Charakbai , PS Baikhora. (Baikhora PS Case No.32/2000 U/S 148/149/326/364(A) IPC, 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 3.9.2000, at" about 1900 hrs. a group (10/12) of NLFT extremists raided the house of Durga Debnath of Radhanagar , PS Fatikroy and inflicted Injury upon him. Ho was shifted to R.G.M. Hospital, Kailashahar, The group "furthe~r raided the house of Prasanna Debnath and kidnapped his minor daughter Rupali Debnath at the point" of gun. (Fatikroy PS Case No.77/2000 U/S 364(A)/326/34 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 18.10.2000, at about 2000 hrs. 2 of NLFT extremists killed one Saruj Debbarma alias Pethan (an ATTF returnee) at Sachindranagar Colony (Pump House) PS Kalyanpur and also assaulted Smti Nirubala Debbarma w/o the deceased (Kalyanpur PS Case No.96/2000 U/S 302/325/34 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 14.10.200,- a group of NLFT extremists led by Bikramjit Tripura, kidnapped one Pijush Name of Kartickcherra, PS Manu. On 13.9.2000 at about 1900 hrs.

the said NLFT group kidnapped ( 1) Smti Sunita Majumdor

(2) Miss Archana Majurrider from West Masli , PS Manu. The

case was registered on 10.10.200 (Manu PS Case No.58/2000

U/S 448/364(A)/34 IPC.

QRIJjJLS—CoaMXTTJ^BXJ^J^^^

On 16.2.2000, at about 0930 hrs . 15/16 ATTF extremists fired on a bus (TRS-1508) with sophisticated arms while the bus was coming from Jatanbari to Arnarpur with passengers at Chellagang Mukh, PS Nutanbazar. As a result 8 persons received bullet injuries namely ( l) Smti Gita Rani Oarkar (42) W/0 Shri Janardhan Sarkar of Jatanbari ( 2) Janardhan Sarkar (50) S/0 Uppendra Sarkar of -do~ ( 3) Badal Paul S/0 Jogesh Paul of -do- ( 4) Dulal Acharjee S/0 Ltd. Prafullya Acharjee of Chandrapur (5) Dwaipayan Acharjee S/0 Shri Dulal Acharjee of -do- (6) Satish Das S/0 Shri Birendra Das of Jatanbari (7) Shyarnsundar Debnath S/0 Madan Mohan Debnath of Nutanbazar ( 8) Smti Pranati Acharjee W/0 Dulal Acharjee of Chandrapur, PS East Agartala. ATTF also kidnapped 3 persons namely S.K.Das, Junior Intelligence Officer of SIB posted at Ambassa ( 2) Swarajif Dey S/0 Nikhil Chandra Dey of Jatanbari (3) Another unknown person from said bus. (Nutanbazar PS 'Case No.9/2000 U/S 148/149/326/364( A) IPC & 2.7 of Arms A c t ).

On 25.3.2000, at about 0945 hrs. an encounter took place at Tapsapara under PS Birganj between 11 Bn.CRPF and ATTF extremists. T he encounter lasted for about 30 minutes. 9 B n X R PF from Nutanbazar who were on special operations duty at "Rabraibari also came forward j I towards Tapsapara and exchange of firing took place with them. After encounter, the CRPF staff recovered an unidentified dead body of extremist, one AK-56 Rifle with 20 live cartridges, 3 Magazines, one empty cartridge of AK Series, one Kukri, one green coloured bag, some paper of ATTF. (Birganj PS Case No.22/2000 U/S 148/149/353/307 IPC, 27/25( 1-B)(a) of Arms Act.

On 5.3.2000, at about 1230 hrs. Jagabandhu Debbarma alias Nirmal S/0 Hemnata Debbarma and 7/8 other ATTF collaborators of katac'hera , PS Sidhail launched attack on Shri Ratish Das S/0 Kshitisih Cli.Oas and others of Satchari, PS Sidhai. As a result Smti Sabitri Das (28) W/0 Pijush Das (2) Jhutan Ghosh (6) S/0 Sakti Pada Ghosh and (3) Pinki Das ( 9) D/0 Bhanualal Das all residents of Satchari PS Sidhai sustained bullet injuries. Injured Smti Sabitri Das and Jhutan Ghosh were shifted to G .8 .Hospital , Agartala. (Sidhai PS Caso No.13/2000 U/S 326/307/34 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 30.4.2000, at about 1900 hrs. unknown armed ATTF extremists abducted Kutum Pada Jamatia of Duluma Chanduk Cherra from Tapsa Para, PS Birganj while he was going to his house from Duluma after taking t#a.

subsequently the dead body of Kutum Pada Jamatia was found at Tapsapara. The extremists also assaulted (l) Ananda Charan jamatia (2) Shib Dayal Jamatia (3) Jo^"-"La Mohan Jamatia (4) Bichitra Kr.Jamatia and ( 5; Bi-s\,u.•,-..,'th 1378 GI/2002—642 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(ii)1 Jamatia. The case was registered on 02.05.2000 (Birganj

PS Case No.31/2000 U/S 364/302/34 I P C ).

On 7.5.2000, at about 2000 hrs. a group of ATTF extremists fired at Priti Kumar Debbarma of Tulkarai Bari, PS Khowai at Senkaribari, PS Khowai while he was returning to his house from Baijalbari Bazar. As a result aforesaid Priti Kr .Debbarma sustained grievous injury and was shifted to" G.B .Hospital, Agartala.

(Khowai PS Case No.45/2000 U/S 326/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 11.6.2000, at about 1300 hrs. a group'(5/6) of ATTF extremists kidnapped Rakesh Debbarma of Dongorbarl and Nihar Debbarma of Melkabari, both under PS Kalyanpur from the house of Nihar Debbarma. After taking them to Kawabassa, PS Khowai"both of them were killed by gun shot and with sharp cutting weapons. (Kalyanpur PS Case No.66/2000 U/S 364/302/34 IPC & 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 31.1.2000, at about 0930 hrs. a group of ATTF extremists detained two trucks (TRL-2760 and TRL-2077) at Paharpur on amarpur-Nutanbazar road, PS Birganj and kidnapped (1 )" Manu Miah ( 4 5 ), Driver S/0 Tabjal Miah (2) Billal Miah, Assistant S/0 Ahid Miah (3) Makhan Das (Labour), all residents of Rajdharnagar ( 4) Malu Miah (32) Driver of TRL-2077 of Rajarbag ( 5) Babul Das, Assistant of TRL-2077 of Maharani ( 6) Ganesh Paul (Labourer) of Maharani and ( 7) another labourer (name not43 ascertained) (BirganJ PS Case No.9/2000 U/S 148/149/364(A) IPC ) .

On 27.9.2000, at about 2030 hrs. a group (4/5) of ATTF extremists raided the house of Santi Jamatia of Santipara, PS Raishyabari and gunned him down. (Raishya Bari PS Case No.11/2000 U/S 302/448/34 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 18.9.2000, at about 1430 hrs. a group of ATTF extremists gunned down one Harendra Debbarma of Biswa Kr.Para, PS Kalyanpur at Uttar Maharanipur Bazar, PS Kalyanpur. (Kalyanpur PS Case No.89/2000 U/S 302/34 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 27.9.2001, at" about 0515 hrs. an encounter took place at Harischandra para under Jirania PS between operations party of C/32 BN.CRPF and a group of armed ATTF extremists. After encounter, CRPF staff reoovered 3 Haversacks, 26, 7.62 live ammunition, 3 AK-47 ammunition etc. The CRPF staff also detained one Sankar Debbarma S/0 Subash Debbarrna of Buraklia, PS Jirania (Jirania PS Case No.90/2001 U/S 148/149/353/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 29.7.2001, at about' 0630 hrs. an encounter took place between 118 Bn.CRPF and ATTF extremists at Nakshtrabari (about 24 KM from' Khowai PS) under Khowai-U THF. GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDlNARY |PAKI II—Si < 3(n)| PS. As a result, one ATTF extremist namely Bishu Munda (22) S/0 Shri Gaja Munda of Nakshtrabari died on the spot. The operations party recovered one country made gun and 3 empty cartridges from the place of occurrence (Khowai PS Case No.28/2001 U/S 148/149/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 20.5.2001, a"t about 0051 hrs. acting on a secret information about movement of a group (50/60) of ATTF extremists at Mohan Kobra and its adjoining areas under Jirania PS. Special operations parties were organized with CRPF/Spec'ial Task Force (STF), Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and District Police. While the CRPF party approached towards the hideout at 0500 hrs, the extremist group opened fire. The CRPF staff retaliated by firing. During exchange of fire one unknown extremist died at spot.

On requisition by operations party, reinforcement • a sent by SDPO Jirania. In the morning, there was a exchange of fire with extremists and the extremists group was prevented from crossing Ghagra para. When the reinforcement parties were approaching towards the extremists the extremists opened fire indiscriminately from small arms followed by throwing H.E. Grenade. In that encounter, Monoranjan Debbarma, Sub-Divisional Police Officer C5DP0) Jirania and Head Constable Sudip Saha sustained bullet injuries. SDPO45 Jirania succumbed to injury at the spot and Sudip Saha was shifted to G .B .Hospital, Agartala. In the meantime, one platoon CRPF let by C.O. 55 Bn.CRPF rushed to the spot. During encounter one unidentified extremist and one AK-56 rifle with magazine 6 live cartridges of AK series rifle, 5 empty cartridge of AK series rifle and one Chinese Grenade etc. were recovered from his possession. (Jirania PS Case No.57/2001 U/S 148/149/353/307/326/302 IPC & 27(1-a )/27 of Arms Act). On 9.4.2001, at about '1800 hrs. while on ONGC Survey Party was returning from Sanitala (Tamakari) area under escort of a contingent of CISF, an armed ATTF extremist group attacked them on the road in between Sanitala and Barkatal. As a result, 2 CISF personnel received bullet injuries on theii' persons and shifted to G ,B .Hospital , Agartala. During" encounter one motorcycle rider namely Ranjit Debbarma, a Kokbarak Teacher of Ramasadhupara School also received bullet injuries and subsequently succumbed to his injuries at G .B .Hospital, Agartala, (Sidhai PS Case No.27/2001 U/S 148/149/326/302/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 20.4.2001, in between 1600 hrs. and 1615 hrs. an encounter took place in between one Company of TSR 3rd Bn. and ATTF extremists in the area of Kine Kishore para and Bhuiyacherra, PS Raishyabari. As a result one Lethar Debbarma alias Layar died at spot and46 TI IE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY [P/wi II—SEC. 3(ii)] Arannya Jamatia alias Akbar of Bhuiyacherra received bullet injury and subsequently died. After encounter Police recovered one country made gun and 3 rounds from the place of occurrence. (Raishyabari PS Case No.04/2001 U/S 148/149/353/307/326/324 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 7.4.2001, at about 1500 hrs. ATTF extremists raided the village Chandra Das (Kamala Ashram) and set fire to the house of Kriti Bushan Chakma, Sumati Rn.Chakma, . Benulal Chakma and Tungia Chakma, all residents of Kamala Ashram, PS Raishyabari. As a result their houses were gutted. A Buddha temple which was situated near the house of Kriti Bhushan Chakma was also gutted. (Raishyabari PS Case No.02/2001 U/S 436/34 IPC).

On 28.4.2001, at about 2000 hrs. a 9roup of ATTF extremists launched attack on a jeep near Birchandra Para, PS Kalyanpur and killed the driver Gopal Debbarma of Sonachari, PS Kalyanpur and Kulendra Debbarma of Sumantapur, PS Champahawar . (Kalyanpur PS Case No.14/2001 U/S 148/149/302/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 28.2.2001, at about 0535 hrs. a group (20/25) of ATTF extremists raided the house of Bishurai Debbarma of Khengrai , PS Jirania and kidnapped his son Bhabendra Debbarma of Khengrai, PS Jirania and kidnapped his son Bhabendra Debbarma and dragged him upto Dashapara, PS Sidhai and killed him by chopping (Jirania PS Case No.28/2001 U/S 448/364/302/34 IPC).

On 27.5.2001, at"about 0825 hrs. 3 dead bodies of unknown tribal youths were recovered with bullet injuries from Tingharia Railway track. They were killed by ATTF extremists under suspicion that they were collaborators or member of NLFT extremists. (Teliamura PS Case No.37/2001 U/S 302 IPC &'27 of Arms A c t ).

On 26.4.2001, at about 1015 hrs. the escort party of Shri Pranab Debbarma, MLA and Shri Radha Charan Debbarma, Leader of the Opposition, Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) was ambushed at kaintokobra, PS Jirania by suspected ATTF extremists. As a result ASI Narayan Debnath of'Jirania PS ( 2) H/C Badal Bhowmik, ( 3) C/670 Rajib Debroy ( 4) C/227 Surendra Debbarma ( 5) C/69 Rajendra" Debbafma ( 6) D/C Bimal Deb and ( 7) C/2070 Sandhyaram Debbarma died on the spot, Rifleman Sadhan Sarkar of 1st Bn.TSR~and Khokan Das {Driver) of Champamura, PS Jirania died in G.8 .Hospital, Agartala.

Beside these three other riflemen sustained grievous injuries. Extremists also snatched away 2 SLRs, 1'303 Rifle and one Stan gun from their possession (Jirania PS Case No.48/2001 U/S 396//307/326 IPC & 2/ of Arms A c t ).

GRJJ1ES__C^&mj£J^Y_^^^^

On 3.2.2001, at about 1000 hrs. an , encounter took place at Jaingbari, PS' Killa in betweeVi NLFT extremists and special -operations party of Killa PS.

After encounter, police recovered one unidentified dead body of extremist aged about 23/24 years, one loaded carbine, 3 Magazine loaded with 126 live rounds, one pocket diary, 4 Cassettes and Rs.2,730/~ in cash (Killa PS Case No.1/2001 U/S 148/149/364CA )/307 IPC & 25(l-B)(a)/27 of Arms Act):

On 21,7.2001, in between 0330 hrs. and 0345 hrs. a group (15/16) of NLFT extremist raided the house of Ratanjoy Reang S/0 Late Sambarai Reang of Ramdula Para, PS Pechartal (About 20 KM from PS) (2) Padmajoy Reang (65) S/0 Haipaiya Reang (3) Rabindra Reang (28) S/0 Lt. Sukramani Reang and forcibly took them from their houses, the started to beat them causing injuries to them for non-payment of money as a percentage of work being taken from Pecharthal Block for Ramdula Para village.

Later one, the extremists gunned down said Ratanjoy Reang. (PTL PS Case No.32/2001 U/S 148/149/325/302/307 IPC & 27 of Arms Act and 10/13 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967).

On 30.7.2001, at about 1900 hrs. a group of armed NLFT (20/25) extremists led by Mangal Debbarma raided the Aswini Debbarma S/0 L'td.Rabi Charan Debbarma of Bhuban Das Para, vitar Mainama, PS Manu (About 12 KM from Manu P S ), assaulted the house inmates by lathi etc. took away said Aswini Debbarma from his house towards village road and killed him with sharp cutting weapons.

^ Deceased Aswini Debbarma was member of CPI(M), LTV Sub-Divisional Committee. Due to assault, brother of Aswini Debbarma namely Binoy Debbarma (65) sustained injuries (Manu PS Case No.23/2001 U/S 448/325/302/34 IPC;

& 27 of Arms A c t ).

On 30/31.7/2001 ni'ght, at about 0030 hrs. a group of NLFT (20/25) extremists led by Mangal Debbarma alias Maifung raided Bidyajoy Para, Lalcherra under Manu PS and took away one Khalendra Chakma (60) S/0 Lt.Paidya Chakrna of Sought Lalcherra, PS Manu at the point of gun from his house. The gang also took away one Bidyajoy Reang (65) S/0 Lt.Grahan Ch.Reang of Bidyajoy Para, North Lacherra, PS Manu from his house. On 31.7.2001 morning, dead bodies of both the persons were recovered from a bush with mark of sharp cutting injuries. Deceased Bidyajoy Reang was a member of GMP State Committee and Khaldendra Chakma was member of Divisional Committee of CPI ( M ), LTV (Manu PS Case No.24/2001 U/S 302/434 IPC & 27 of Arms Act ) .

On 3.8.2001, at about 1930 hrs. one unknown person called victim Sarbajoy Reang S/0 Gachirarn Reang of Gachirampara, PS Kanchanpur. As he went there, 15/20 armed extremists directed him to go with them. On the way, he was killed by tho extremists. (Kanchanpur PS Case No.33/2001 U/S 448/365/302/34 IPC & 27 of Arms *Vt, 10/13 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967).

1378 GI/2002—750 THE GAZbTl'b OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY |PART II—SEC. 3(ii)] On 8.8.2001, ait about 1000 hrs. on© Arun Oobbarma of Krishna Charan Para, PS Takarjala stopped the scooter of Mahendra ueobarma S/0 Lt.Manindra Debbarma of Murabari, Haria Kobra Para, PS Takarjala on Jampaljala-Takarjala road. He handed over a letter to Udal Debbarma (45) Chairman Block Advisory Committee, Jampaijala Block. After perusal of letter said Udai Debbarma proceeded towards North side. But Udai Debbarma did not return. Subsequently dead body of Udai Debbarma was found at Nimaibari' (4 KM N/E from Takarjala PS) with mark of gun shot injuries at about 1245 hrs. A group of NLFT armed extremists committed this crime. (Takarjala PS Case No.18/2001 U/S 302/34 IPC).

On 18.8.2001, around 2000 hrs. a group (7/8) of NLFT extremist raided the house of Jagadish Debbarma, CPI(M) Village Chariman S/O'Lt. Chandra Mohan Debbarma of Kendraicherra, PS Takarjala dn forcibly took him away from his house. When Smti Sandhya Debbarma (37) W/0 Jagadish Debbarma and her daughter Biniti Debbarrna (16) tried to resist them, the extremists assaulted them causing injuries. The extremists gunned down said Jagadish Debbarma (About 2 KM South from his house near K"ndraicherra) (Takarjala PS Case No.20/2001 U/S 448/325/302/34 IPC & 27" of Arms Act).

On 21.8.2001, at about 1925 hrs. a group (5/6) of NLFT armed extremists raided the house of Purnendu Jl Deb, Chairman of East Masli G.P.(Pro-CPlCM) S/0 Lt.

Paresh Deb of East Masli PS Manu and fired indiscriminately. As a result said Purnendu Deb died at spot and Smti Kanika Deb (25) W/0 Purnendu Deb and one Satyendra Deb S/0 Shri Manindra Deb of East Masli sustained bullet injury. Both the injured shifted to Manughat PHC. (Manu PS Case No. 26/2001 U/S 448/326/302/34 IPC & 27 of Arms Act).

On 31.8.2001, at about 0930 hrs. a group of NLFT extremists (40/45) with sophisticated arms let by Sankar Debbarma raided the house of one Sukhu Debbarma S/0 Lt.Krishna Ch.Debbarma of Radha Charan Thakur Para, PS Jirania and took meal in his house. After taking meal the extremists gang took Suku Debbarma and his two cousins namely (1) Sana! Debbarma S/0 Shri Sandhya Ram Debbarma and (2) Bishu Debbarma upto Kashi Das Para and fired on them from sophisticated arms. As a result Suku Debbarma and Sanai Debbarma died at spot and Bishu Debbarma sustained grievous injuries. On way to Hospital Bishu Debbarma succumbed to his injuries. (Jirania PS Case No.82/2001 U/S 148/149/302/326 IPC & 27 of Arms Act and 13 of Unlawful Activities ~( Prevention) Act, 1967).

On 2.9.2001 night, at about 2130 hrs. a group of NLFT extremists (7/8) with sophisticated arms raided the house of Kirannya & Hirendra Jamatia (72) S/0 Shti Chandra Mohan Jamatia of Ndabari, PS Killa and firedSI THE GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDlNARY [PART II—SF.C. 3(ii)] indiscriminately. As a result, Hirannya Jamatia and his wife Olibala Jamatia (68) died at spot. On way back, extremists also killed one Swarna Bhakta Q Kalu Jamatia (32) S/0 Ananda Mohan Jamatia of Nityabazar, PS Killa at Joining Bar! under Killa PS. Deceased Hirannya Jamatia was Secretary of CPI(M) Killa L/C and deceased Swarna Bhakta Jamatia was a surrendered extremist, (NLFT).

(Killa PS Case No.07/2001 U/S "148/149/457/302 IPC & 27 of Arms Act ) .

On 13.01.2002, around 1800 hrs. a group of tribal extremists armed with sophisticated weapons appeared at Singhicherra , No'.2 Chowmuhani about 7 KMs East from Khowai P.S. At that time there was a considerable gathering of the villagers around the shops near No.2 Chowmuhani in connection with "Sankranti' sell/purchase of articles. On arrival at Singhicherra, No.2 Chowrnuhani the extremists started firing indiscriminately and as a result of firing 16 persons died and 13 persons were injured. (Khowai PS Case No.01.2002 dated 13.01.2002).

The approximate number of incidents committed by ATTF and NLFT in Tripura during year 2000 and 2001 were as follows:

No. Of

Killings

No.of persons kidnapped

No-of

Kidnappings

No.of incidents committed

NLFT

NLFT

YEAR 1 2000 2001

ATTF TOTAL 3 4 28 329 26 163

2 301 137

TOTAL 10 526 134

TOTAL 7 "249 56

8 488 113

NLFT ATTF 5 6 227 22 46 10"

ATTF 9 38 21

TOTAL 11 121 97 Total 438 54 492

305 601 59 660

218

273 32

Mr .Ram Phal , Under Secretary to the Government of India in his affidavit has broadly outlined the objective for banning the two organizations. He also stated that both the ATTF and NLFT had training camps and hide outs in Bangladesh and were using the Bangladesh territory frequently for taking shelter after indulging in major incidents of violence. Most of these incidents were planned in and executed from Bangladesh soil. These organisations had acquired a sizeable number of sophisticated weapons and were known to be maintaining close links with other North-East insurgent groups.

Recent reports indicated a growing nexus between the NLFT and NSCNCl/M) on the one hand and the ATTF and ULFA on the other hand in their operations in Tripura. Thoce tribal extremists/armed miscreants had shown little hesitation in attacking police/Security Forces and innocent non-tribals (particularly Bengalis) with a view to forcing them to leave Tripura. Most of the victims of54 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC.3(U)] the terrorists were non-tribals, particularly Bengalis.

This had caused wide schism between the tribals and non-tribals in the State leading to volatile ethnic situation, which give rise to ethnic clashes on slightest provocation.

All other witnesses appearing on behalf of the Government of Tripura affirmed the contents of the affidavit of Mr .K.Ambuly. The witnesses proved on record the extortion notices issued by the banned organisations as well as the first information reports registered in respect of the offences committed by these organisations.

It was stated by them that both the organisations were engaged in subversive and secessionist activities in many parts of Tripura; they were operating from across the boarder from Bangladesh and it, therefore, becomes difficult for the police to curtail them. It was stated that the modus operand! of these organisations was to terrorise people with arms and threaten certain communities to leave certain areas of Tripura. They were also engaged in killing and kidnapping for ransom of innocent people and Government officials as a result of which development activities were hampered. The Constitution of the aforesaid banned organisations were, also proved by the witnesses.

A perusal of the Constitution of All Tripura Tiger Force shows that the main objective of the Force is55

to form a separata country comprising of the seven States

of North East, namely, Tripura, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh and for this the Force was to support all sorts of movements and utilise their own force for the purpose. The main objective of the National Liberation Front of Tripura was to overthrow imperialism, capitalism and neo-colonialism from Tripura with armed struggle with a view to have a distinct and independent identity of the Borok civilisation of Twipra; to liberate the Borokland Twipra complete freedom and transform a People's Republic with a view to establish the true Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity in the State. With a view to achieve this objective of setting up of its own independent government and overthrow the alleged capitalist Government of India, the Constitution provided that it will have its own independent flag, constitution of emblem and official language. To achieve this obje'ctive, the Constitution provided that it will resort to even use of force. The Government has also placed on record receipts issued by National Liberation Front of Tripura regarding extortion of money from Panchayat officials and individual© in the name of revenue and tax.

A perusal of the statement of the witnesses and on perusal of the affidavits and documents placed on record including the Constitution of National Liberation56 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC.3(U)] Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force, subscription notices and extortion receipts, it is clear that objectives of both the National Liberation Front of Tripura and All Tripura Tiger Force is to establish an independent identity of Borokland Tripura as well as separate country comprising of the ,seven North-Eastern States. The area of operation of these organisations mainly include West Tripura, Dhalai, North and South Tripura. These organisations possess sophisticated fire arms procured from illegal sources. They are continuing to follow the policy of secession from India; they are continuing to indulge in activities pre™judicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India and indulging in violence and terror through armed action with a view to achieve their objective. They are also indulging in extortion and illegal tax collection from public including businessmen, traders and even Government employees and they have links with and support of other North-East insurgent groups.. They are continuing to maintain sanctuaries, safe havens, training camps in neighbouring Bangladesh and are procuring large number of sophisticated arms and ammunitions through clandestine channels or by snatching from various security forces.

The organisations are indulging in killing of civilians, armed personnel and are resorting to looting, extortion and other criminal acts and are thus creating a climate57 of lawlessness.

Sections 2(f) and 2(g) of the Act define

"unlawful activity" and "unlawful association" as under*.-

"(f) "unlawful activity", in relation to an individual, means any action taken by such individual or association (whether by committing an act or by words, either spoken or written, or by signs or by visible representation or otherwise)-

(i) which is intended, or supports any claim, to bring about, on any ground whatsoever, the cession of a part "of the territory of India or India from the Union, or which incites any individual or group of individuals to bring about such cession or secession;

(ii) which disclaims, questions, disrupts or is intended to disrupt the sovereignty and territorial integrity of" India;

(9) "unlawful association" means any association- CD which has for its object any unlawful

activity, or which encourages or aids persons to undertake any unlawful activity or of whicn the members undertake such activity."

It is clear "from a perusal of the evidence

produced on record that both the aforesaid organisation**,

namely, National Liberation Front of Tripura and All

Tripura Tiger Force are indulging in subversive,

secessionist and violent activities and are resorting to

acts of killing of civilians, army and police personnel,

extortion of funds from1 public arid traders In Tripura for

procuring sophisticated arm© and ammunitions through

clandestine channels or by snatching from various

|PARTII—SEC. 3(II)1 58_ THF, GAZETTE OF INDIA EXTRAORDINARY

security forces. The organisations have links with and support of other north eastern secessionist insurgent groups. The aims and objectives of both the organisations are to secede from India and to form a separate State of Tripura or in any case a sovereign State of all the seven North-Eastern States including Tripura. It is also proved from the material on record that if these organisations "are allowed to continue with their activities, they will indulge in insurgent and unlawful activities. Both the organisations are indulging in various violent activities of extortion, looting and are creating a climate of lawlessness in the State of Tripura. Their activities are intended to disrupt the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India and if they are not checked, not only that the unlawful activities will increase but also an atmosphere may be created in the State for secession from India.

Their activities are thus a clear threat to the sovereignty and integrity of the country. The organisations are advocating and practicing the secession of a part of the territory of India from the Union and are inciting the individuals and'groups of individuals to bring about such cession or secession from the country.

Their activities clearly amount to unlawful activities ae

defined under Section 2(f) of tho Act.

For the foreooing reasons, I am satisfied that there was sufficient cause for declaring the National Liberation Front of Tripura and the All Tripura Tiger Force as unlawful associations. This Tribunal, accordingly, confirm the declaration made by the Central Government vide notification dated 3rd October, 2001 issued under sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

[No 9/8/2001-N.E.1J

SURENDRA KUMAR, Jt. Secy' j5£" April, 2002

Primed by the Manager, Govl of India Press. Ring Road, Mayapuri, New Delhi-110064 and Published by the Controller of Publications. Dclhi-110054.