Historic GoI-ULFA accord set to be inked on Dec 29 in New Delhi

• Image Credit: Google

• Dec 25, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Led by Anup Chetia and Arvind Rajkhowa, the leadership of ULFA initiated crucial talks today in New Delhi...

Digital Desk: Anticipation mounts as the Government of India (GoI) and the pro-talk faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) gear up for a momentous signing ceremony scheduled for December 29 in New Delhi. This landmark event is poised to signal a significant leap towards enduring peace in the region.

Led by Anup Chetia and Arvind Rajkhowa, the leadership of ULFA initiated crucial talks today in New Delhi, marking a pivotal step towards a conclusive resolution. The ULFA delegation arrived in the capital city this afternoon from Guwahati and in a secret location.

Sources deeply involved in the negotiations have confirmed that the final draft of the peace agreement, undergoing meticulous review by the Union Government, is on track for year-end approval.

This transformative accord is anticipated to address pivotal concerns, including Assam's economic rejuvenation, resolution of delimitation issues, and steadfast protection of indigenous rights—a breakthrough hailed as the linchpin among Assam's agreements.

Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated the state's commitment to securing a peace accord with ULFA's pro-talk faction by year-end or early next year. Sarma emphasized the necessity of halting violent activities in Assam, citing recent alleged grenade incidents in upper Assam as impediments to progress.

However, the path to this historic reconciliation faces challenges, notably from the Paresh Barua-led ULFA-Independent group. Barua's faction, operating from northern Myanmar, has attempted a resurgence with skirmishes and attempted bombings—a final push seen as an effort to derail the imminent accord.

Chief Minister Sarma expressed openness to dialogue with Barua but highlighted the complexities of aligning divergent viewpoints. Despite these obstacles, the region remains poised for a transformative shift towards peace and prosperity.

As the December 29 signing ceremony approaches, the collective hope and anticipation for a lasting resolution resonate across Assam, signaling the dawn of a new chapter in the region's history.