Assam: Militant camps to boost tourism in state? Read what this MP says
TNT News Desk | October 16, 2018
GUWAHATI: The insecurity in tourists before visiting the Northeast Indian state seems to be gradually fading away, thanks to the decline in the activities of insurgents and militant groups. But, have you ever given a thought as to how surrendered militant camps can be used to boost tourism in state?
This out-of-the-box idea was presented by Rajya Sabha MP from the state, Biswajit Daimary who has proposed that visitors be allowed to spend some time in designated camps of surrendered militants to boost tourism prospects.
"I am only talking about those militant groups which are either under ceasefire agreement with the government or have surrendered, and their members are lodged in designated camps across the state. The prospect of using the designated camps for tourism should be explored," the MP suggested at the launch of a TV commercial for 'Awesome Assam', the state's tourism tagline, on Monday. Tourism minister Chandan Brahma and Assam Tourism Development Corporation chairman Jayanta Malla Baruah were also present.
Talking to TOI, Daimary, who is from Bodoland People's Front, said, "What's the harm if visitors spend some time in designated camps, have tea and take a peek into the lives of militants? Tourism is all about looking for new experiences and thrills. I think my proposal should be explored."
However, Daimary did not elaborate on how to go about it. "This is my suggestion. Let the tourism department explore how it can best utilize the camps for promoting tourism in the state," he added. There are an estimated 19 designated camps belonging to Ulfa (pro-talks), National Democratic Front of Boroland (Progressive), National Democratic Front of Boroland (Ranjan Daimary), Karbi Longri North Cachar Hills Liberation Front (KLNCHLF) and five outfits belonging to Adivasi community. Ulfa (pro-talks), NDFB (P), NDFB(Ranjan Daimary) and KLNCHLF are under suspension of operations since 2011, 2005, 2013 and 2010 respectively. Five Adivasi outfits have also suspended operations since 2012.
