It has been about six-months since the Centre and the ULFA discussed modalities of talks. The talks resumed on Monday to discuss the outfit’s charter of demands. Also discussed were such other issues as the ground rules for ceasefire, surrender of arms and ammunition and total halt of operations against the pro-talks faction. The impression created is that the two sides are yet to get down to brass tacks and are concerned only with ascertaining if the time is ripe for hard talks. Optimism prevails as the discussions were said to have been fruitful and constructive. Home Secretary R.K. Singh and ULFA Chairman Arabinda Rajkhawa discussed all issues concerning Assam’s peace and development. There was total accord on pursuing the peace-initiative.
It is disappointing that no clarification is available about the ULFA charter of demands. The only point made was that safeguards should be ensured for the indigenous people of Assam. Centre-State relations were only touched upon. The core issue of sovereignty versus autonomy was put on hold though it is the main sticking point. It is not clear whether it would be taken up at the next round of talks the date of which is uncertain. The problem of tackling the anti-talks faction under Paresh Barua remains unresolved. If the security forces stop operations, how will they separate pro-talks forces from anti-talks rebels whose strength is not negligible? Singh is against talks with the Maoists. How does he view the ULFA scenario?
