Talks with ULFA should start even without Paresh: Goswami

Guwahati, Feb 2 (PTI) Jnanpith winner Indira Goswami,who has mediated between the Centre and the ULFA, today saidthe peace process with the group should be initiated as earlyas possible even if its ''commander-in-chief'' Paresh Baruahstays away.

"We need the peace talks to take place. Baruah has tobe brought. (But) If he does not come then there is no wayout...we will still have to go ahead with the peace processhoping that he will come", the noted litterateur toldreporters on the sidelines of a book launch function here.

"I advice (''chairman'') Arabinda Rajkhowa to somehowbring Paresh back with honour and dignity. May be to seesomething good happening he will join the peace process,"Goswami said.

Asked if she thought the peace talks will besuccessful and that peace will return to Assam withoutBaruah''s participation, she reiterated, "Even if he does notcome for the talks, people still want peace. Everybody wantspeace. None is greater than the people."

On a recent video sent by Baruah to the mediademanding sovereignty for Assam, the writer said, "He keepstelling me about it but I don''t give much importance. He onlycalls me up. I don''t even know his phone number".