ULFA demands ''level playing field'' for direct talks with Centre

Guwahati, Sep 17 (UNI) The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has demanded a 'level playing field' for direct talks with the Centre.

In the editorial in the current issue of its mouthpiece 'Freedom', the militant group said in order to facilitate a level playing field for talks, the government must shun ''colonial attitude''.

ULFA stated that the government must create an air of trust and show eagerness for talks where the issue of restoration of sovereignty of Asom can be discussed. It must create a proper atmosphere for talks by releasing the jailed central committee members of the outfit and provide information about the members of ULFA, who went missing since the operations in Bhutan in December 2003.

ULFA pointed out that in the third round of talks with the People's Consultative Group (PCG), the Centre assured to release five of its jailed leaders and it was agreed that both the Government and ULFA would try to create a congenial atmosphere.

ULFA said the Government announced a ceasefire on August 13 without honouring the commitment of releasing the jailed central committee members. The organisation alleged that though the Government extended the period of the ceasefire, the shelters of ULFA members were attacked on September 2 in violation of what was agreed upon during discussion with the PCG.

UNI XC KK RL KN1623