Oil India Limited receives Rs 20 lakh demand by militants group in Arunachal Pradesh

Extortion activities by militants in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh, are on the rise, with the NSCN (K-YA) now targeting Oil India Limited (OIL). The militant group has reportedly issued a demand for Rs 20 lakh from the Maharatna company, which operates in the Manabhum Reserve Forest, spanning both Changlang and Namsai districts.

The extortion note, signed by a self-styled Major Tha Aung, was delivered through an intermediary, with a deadline set for December 10, 2024. This situation has raised concerns about the safety of OIL's employees and assets in the region.

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OIL Spokesperson Prankush Malla Buzarbaruah confirmed receipt of the extortion demand, stating that security measures have been intensified both at the company’s field sites and offices. “Operations are continuing normally despite the threat,” Buzarbaruah said, adding that the wells in Manabhum produce approximately 100 kilolitres of crude oil daily.

In response to the escalating situation, OIL’s top officials, including the CMD, are in regular contact with the Arunachal Pradesh government. Security has been bolstered with the deployment of 40 Indian Reserve Battalion personnel and 22 Special Task Force (STF) members, with 10 additional STF personnel expected to join shortly.

The incident underscores a broader issue of insurgent activity in eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Following earlier reports of widespread extortion by NSCN (K-YA), security forces have intensified operations against the group. However, the latest demand signals a worrying escalation in the militants’ tactics, shifting their focus to large corporations.

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