Movement along the India–Bhutan international border in Assam’s Tamulpur district has been restricted from Monday evening as part of election security measures for the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly polls.The restrictions came into force from 5 pm on April 6 and will remain in place until the completion of polling on April 9. The order was issued by District Magistrate and District Election Officer Simi Karan under Section 163(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.According to the official directive, all land entry and exit points along the international border have been sealed for the duration of the restriction. The administration has stated that the movement of both people and vehicles across the border will be regulated to prevent any unlawful activity and to ensure that the election process remains free and fair.
Officials said such measures are part of standard election protocols, especially in border districts, to avoid any external influence during polling. Security agencies have been put on alert, and strict monitoring is being carried out at all designated points along the border.However, the administration has allowed certain exemptions. People travelling from Bhutan to India in case of medical emergencies will be permitted entry. Similarly, Indian citizens and foreign tourists who had already travelled to Bhutan before the restrictions, and can produce valid documents, will be allowed to return.
Tourists planning to visit Bhutan with proper travel documents will also be permitted to cross, subject to verification. In addition, vehicles carrying essential and perishable goods will be allowed movement through designated check posts after necessary checks.The order also states that voters from the 43-Tamulpur (ST) and 44-Goreswar Assembly constituencies will be allowed to enter the district during the election period if they can show valid identification and required documents.