Why ULFA softens demand of free Assam?

Guwahati, Jan 4: One of the deadliest separatist groups in the northeast, United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) softened its adamant demands for the freedom of Assam. ULFA chief Arabinda Rajkhowa informed that the insurgent group is ready for a peace talk with government without any condition.

Rajkhowa was released from jail on bail on Dec 31 and claimed, "We are ready for talks with the Government. There are no ideological differences within the ULFA."

Later, addressing a public rally in Assam, Rajkhowa also claimed, "If our peace efforts fail we will come back to you and seek your guidance on whether to take up arms again or fight it out politically for our rights."

Both center and state government seem to be keen on beginning the much awaited peace talk as over citing the forthcoming assembly elections in Assam.

Rajkhowa also reiterated his demand of release of general secretary Anup Chetia from a Bangladesh jail.

It is now expected that more ultra leaders will be released soon to facilitate the group's general council meeting, in which a formal decision will be taken on unconditional peace talks with the government.

Both ULFA leaders and government may move to the peace talk for their own interest but peace and political reconciliation have been long overdue in Assam which has experienced various insurgencies since 1979 when ULFA was formed.

OneIndia News