The Tirap district administration has imposed an immediate ban on the use of camouflage or military-pattern clothing by civilians during hunting or fishing activities. The decision follows rising security concerns after reports of increased militant movement in the region bordering Myanmar.

In an order issued on Monday, Deputy Commissioner Techu Aran stated that no civilian will be allowed to wear camouflage attire or carry arms while engaging in hunting or fishing. The restriction excludes authorised security personnel on duty.

“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 directive said.

The administration has also prohibited civilian entry into forested areas after sunset for such activities. Violators will face legal action and penalties as prescribed by law, the notification warned.

Triggered by militant movement from Myanmar

The order comes amid intelligence inputs suggesting the infiltration of around 20 cadres of the United Liberation Front of Asom–Independent (ULFA-I) into Indian territory from their base in Myanmar. Sources said that at least 10 of them are still suspected to be hiding in parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

In response, security forces have intensified counter-insurgency operations and surveillance along the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, particularly in remote forested belts where militant movement has been reported.

Precautionary step to ensure civilian safety

Officials described the ban on camouflage attire as a preventive and precautionary measure to reduce the risk of confusion during military operations.

“The move is aimed at ensuring the safety of civilians, as similar attire could lead to misidentification during encounters or patrolling by armed forces,” an official said.

The Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts—often referred to as the insurgency triangle—have long been sensitive zones due to cross-border militant activities. The latest order, officials noted, is part of a broader strategy to maintain public safety and support ongoing security operations.

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