The Tirap district administration in Arunachal Pradesh has imposed an immediate ban on the use of camouflage or military-pattern attire by civilians during hunting or fishing activities, citing security concerns amid reports of increased militant movement in the region.
In an order issued on Monday, Tirap Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran stated that no civilian shall wear camouflage clothing or carry arms while engaging in such activities, except for authorised security personnel on duty. The directive is aimed at preventing cases of mistaken identity by the armed forces operating in the area.
“Such action of wearing camouflage clothing in the jungle can lead to mistaken identity by defence forces, especially amid rising militant activities in and around the forested areas of Tirap, Changlang, Longding, and Namsai districts,” the order stated.
The administration has also prohibited civilian entry into forest areas after sunset for hunting or fishing purposes. “Any person found violating the order shall be liable to legal action and penalties as prescribed by law,” the notification warned.
The move comes in the wake of heightened security alerts following reports that around 20 cadres of the United Liberation Front of Asom–Independent (ULFA-I) had crossed into India from their base in Myanmar and taken shelter in parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Sources said that about 10 ULFA-I cadres are still suspected to be hiding in the state, prompting security forces to tighten surveillance along the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border and intensify counter-insurgency operations.
Officials said the ban on camouflage attire is a precautionary measure intended to avoid confusion during ongoing security operations and ensure the safety of civilians in sensitive forest zones.
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