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Home Secretary RK Singh on Wednesday said the situation in Assam is “under control,” and the miscreants “would not be spared.” Interacting with mediapersons here, Singh assured that the situation in the strife-torn district of Kokrajhar is improving. He also stated that there was no foreign hand involved behind the ethnic violence. “Situation is under control. Last night there were just two minor incidents of arson. The security forces have reached; many more companies are reaching. We have almost adequate number of forces on the ground. Trains have started moving. The situation is improving,” Singh said. On being asked if he has issued any instructions to Assam government over the issue, Singh informed that he has been in constant touch with the state authorities. “I have been speaking to the Chief Secretary and the DGP of Assam. I have spoken to them a number of times. Day before yesterday, I spoke to Bodo leaders. Yesterday, I spoke to the Chief Minister,” he revealed. Singh brushed aside speculations of the involvement of a foreign hand behind the ethnic violence, adding that the ringleaders will be “booked.” “There is no evidence of foreign hand. I have told the Chief Secretary and the DGP that nobody will be spared. Whosoever is the ringleader will be booked. We are not going to show any regard to anyone,” he asserted. Singh further informed that the Prime Minister is aware of the ground situation. “Prime Minister has been in regular touch with the Home Minister. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is in touch with me. Prime Minister is very much abreast of the situation,” he said. Singh added that a Special Secretary and a Joint Secretary are camping in Assam while NDRF personnel have been sent there as well. “We will take very stringent action,” he reiterated, adding that “25 people have been arrested, more will be arrested.” When asked if the Assam Government was late in seeking army’s assistance, the Home Secretary gave it clean-chit, saying, “it takes time to mobilise forces.”

No foreign hand behind Assam incidents: Home Secretary RK Singh