ULFA demands formal proposal through PCG for talks

Guwahati, Nov 15 (UNI) The banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) today demanded a formal proposal from the Centre through the People Consultative Group (PCG) for talks.

In the latest issue of its mouthpiece 'Freedom'', ULFA stated, in an editorial, that the talks, if any, with the Centre must be based on the ''core issue of restoration of sovereignty of Asom''.

''We are aware of the news that the two key mediators Dr Mamoni Raisom Goswami and Rebati Phukon have met the National Security Adviser (NSA) in response to the Centre's invitation in an attempt to restart the peace talks. This is nothing but a fradulent endeavour to hold India's Republic Day celebrations early next year without hindrance,'' it stated.

'' However, ULFA cares for a political solution to Asom-Indo conflict. However, to keep this process rolling India must send a formal proposal through the PCG and the core issue of talks should be restoration of sovereignty of Asom. ULFA would welcome such a proposal.'' The banned outfit denied its hand behind the November 5 twin blasts at Fancy Bazar and Pathar Quarry in Guwahati.

ULFA denounced intensification of operation by security forces against it and warned Asom police against perpetrating ''atrocities'' in the name of anti-ULFA operation.

''At this juncture we prefer to give a clarion call to people from every strata and civil society of Asom to refrain from co-operating with Indian Occupational Forces and other colonial agencies by all means to avoid any untoward incidents,''the editorial said.

''We are compelled to give a stern warning to Assam Police and its collaborators that the ULFA would not remain a mere spectator to its heinous act against common people of Asom.'' UNI XC KK YA VV2032