Surrendered ULFA rebels observes Martyrs' Day

Kakopathar (Assam), July 28 (ANI): A group of surrendered rebels of the moderate faction of United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), observed Martyrs' Day at Kakopathar in Tinsukia district.

To mark the occasion, a flag hoisting programme was organised wherein, Mrinal Hazarika, leader of ULFA's pro-talks faction unfurled the organisation's flag in honour of those who had sacrificed their lives fighting for the cause of autonomy.

The 'Pro-Talks' group of ULFA are in talks with the central government for a negotiated settlement to the separatist issue.

Hazarika said that they would wait for the Government of Assam to approach them for talks.

"We have spoken to the Chief Minister couple of times regarding our autonomy demand and through him we have even put forth our demand to the central government. However, till now we have not been invited for any formal talks but we would definitely wait," he added.

He also said that their group would adopt a democratic approach to achieve their objective for an autonomous state.

"To fulfil our demand of complete autonomy, we have decided to go the democratic way as far as possible," he added.

The ULFA had submitted a charter of demands to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh demanding full autonomy within the framework of the Indian Constitution in March 2009. (ANI)