Shillong, Nov 24 : In the face of escalating tensions in Manipur, Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General of Assam Rifles, reiterated the force’s steadfast commitment to righteousness. Speaking to the media in Shillong, he emphasized, “We are here to ensure that we come together with the people, we serve the people, and we try our best. In spite of whatever happens, we will not let go of the righteous path. Those who do right must face everything, but we will not leave the path of righteousness. We will keep on connecting. Our soldiers come from the Northeast—a huge number of them. We are part of the society; we are not different from you. You serve the nation as I do. Maybe time will tell, but the Northeast is a wonderful place—a great place to live.”
As the Assam Rifles continues to play a pivotal role in securing the Indo-Myanmar border, there have been discussions about potentially raising an additional battalion. Lieutenant General Lakhera stated, “This is an issue with the Government of India. However, we are keen to grow, and whatever recommendations are in this regard, time will tell.”
The DG also highlighted the broader scope of Assam Rifles’ operations, underscoring their active participation in disaster relief efforts. “Whenever disaster strikes or any calamity occurs—be it floods in Imphal, landslides, accidents, or emergencies requiring medical care—Assam Rifles is deployed. We are the single largest donor of blood in the region. Our soldiers’ blood runs in the veins of countless citizens in the Northeast.”
On the topic of modernization, Lieutenant General Lakhera pointed to the induction of advanced technologies, ensuring that Assam Rifles remains at the forefront of both security operations and humanitarian assistance.
