ULFA (Pro-Talks) Leadership Stands Firm, Defends Peace Accord Amid Backlash

ULFA's pro-talks faction defends its recent peace accord, expressing satisfaction with government commitments, while facing public scrutiny and political skepticism in Assam.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 31 December 2023 8:31 pm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma with members of ULFA

In the face of widespread criticism over the recent peace accord, the leadership of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) pro-talks faction held a press conference on Sunday to defend the pact, asserting that they have received more than anticipated from the government.

Addressing the media upon returning from New Delhi, ULFA (pro-talks) chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa emphasized that the agreement guarantees the integrity of Assam and secures commitments from the Government of India for its protection. Despite accusations that the accord is merely a package, Rajkhowa contended that the interests of the indigenous people have been safeguarded through the peace agreement.

In a notable move, the militant leader expressed remorse for the actions of the ULFA during the 44-year-long armed insurgency, specifically apologizing for the Dhemaji blast and the loss of innocent lives. The 2004 blast at Dhemaji College Ground on Independence Day had claimed 18 lives, including 13 children.

ULFA (pro-talks) general secretary Anup Chetia acknowledged public criticism as people's blessings and announced a review of the peace accord in consultation with the citizens of the state. Chetia highlighted the commitment to the reservation of indigenous people in the Assam assembly as a primary focus.

The outfit's foreign secretary, Sasadhar Choudhury, shared that ULFA will disband within 10-20 days as per the agreement with the government. He expressed the desire to bring ULFA (Independent) chief Paresh Barua to the dialogue table for permanent peace in Assam.

On December 29, the ULFA (pro-talks) faction signed a peace accord with the central and Assam governments, committing to renounce violence, surrender all arms, disband the organization, and participate in the democratic process.

Despite the leadership's assertions, opposition parties in Assam criticized the pact, labeling it a "political gimmick" ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. They called for the public disclosure of the agreement, emphasizing concerns that old points from earlier accords have been rephrased without substantial changes.

Since the signing of the pact, ULFA leaders have faced widespread public criticism on social media platforms, with many expressing disappointment over what they perceive as an insufficient "economic package" for Assam.