Assam Rifles Personnel Killed In Nagaland Ambush, Army Appeals For Restraint

The Indian Army has appealed for peace and urged people not to allow terrorism to disturb Nagaland’s hard-earned stability after an Assam Rifles soldier was killed and four others were injured in a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast in Chumoukedima district. The appeal came as the force paid tribute to the deceased personnel, Havildar Mohammad Iqbal, who was accorded full military honours in Dimapur.

Havildar Iqbal, 44, belonging to the 28 Assam Rifles Battalion, was killed on Monday when an IED exploded near a vehicle that was part of an Assam Rifles convoy. The blast took place in Chumoukedima district, triggering security concerns in the region. Four other personnel travelling with the convoy were injured in the attack and received medical attention.

Following the incident, the Army called on citizens to reject attempts by violent elements to disrupt peace and development in Nagaland. Officials said such attacks should not undermine the progress made towards maintaining stability in the northeastern state, which has witnessed decades of security challenges and efforts towards restoring normalcy.

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The mortal remains of Havildar Iqbal were brought to the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School (ARTC&S) at 3rd Mile in Dimapur, where a solemn ceremony was held. Director General of Assam Rifles Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, along with senior officers from the Army and Assam Rifles, paid their final respects to the soldier and honoured his service to the nation.

Iqbal, a native of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir, served with the Assam Rifles, one of India's oldest paramilitary forces responsible for maintaining security along the northeastern borders and supporting counter-insurgency operations. His colleagues remembered him as a dedicated soldier who lost his life while carrying out his duties.

Security agencies have launched an investigation into the blast to identify those responsible and determine the exact circumstances behind the attack. The use of an IED has raised concerns among security officials, who are examining possible links to militant groups operating in the region. Further details about the perpetrators and the motive behind the attack are awaited.

The incident has drawn attention to the continuing security challenges faced by forces deployed in parts of the Northeast. Authorities have maintained that efforts will continue to protect peace and ensure the safety of security personnel and civilians. The Army and Assam Rifles have reiterated their commitment to maintaining stability in Nagaland while ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.

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