NDFB threatens to pull out of peace process

Guwahati, Apr 21 (UNI) The Nationalist Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) today threatened to resume 'armed struggle' if the Centre failed to show 'sincerity' towards the peace process with the outfit.

Addressing the media here today, NDFB battalion 'commander' Taim Gegra accused the government of being casual towards the peace process in the region.

Apprehending that peace in Bodoland in lower Asom could soon be shattered, Mr Gegra said, ''We are observing ceasefire now, and following the ground rules of the truce in letter and spirit. We want a peaceful solution to the Bodo problem.'' Denying any hand in the kidnapping of FCI Executive Director PC Ram, the NDFB alleged that by spreading false propaganda against the outfit, some elements were intending to sabotage the peace process.

A section of the media have carried news reports that the NDFB was involved in the abduction of the FCI boss from Guwahati on April 17 last.

It has been reported that the abducted official was being kept captive somewhere in the Baksa district of lower Asom, a stronghold of the NDFB.

The Army had said security forces have launched an operation in the Baksa district, besides some areas of Kamrup and Nalbari in lower Asom to trace the abducted official.

Mr Gegra said by allegations that the outfit has been involved in extortion and abductions are being raised to sabotage the peace process.

''The government so far has failed to show any sincerity towards holding talks with the outfit,'' he said, threatening that the outfit will not hesitate to resume warpath any moment.

The Centre has been insisting that the outfit, which is in ceasefire since October, 2004, submits its charter of demands before the talks could be held.

However, the NDFB has refused to give any charter of demands, saying that the Centre has not sought any such charter from any outfit before sitting across the table with them.

''The government is well aware of our demands and objectives,'' the NDFB says.

Formed in 1986, the NDFB has been fighting for a 'sovereign Bodoland', which includes several parts of lower Asom.

UNI