No unilateral ceasefire, will exercise restraint: ULFA
Sudhi Ranjan Sen
Watch story
Saturday, August 19, 2006 (Guwahati, New Delhi):
The ULFA on Saturday denied it had declared a unilateral ceasefire and said it would exercise 'restraint' in response to the Centre's suspension of security operations against its cadres.
ULFA chairman Arabindo Rajkhowa denied media reports that his organisation had declared a unilateral ceasefire.
Rajkhowa clarified, "We will exercise restraint in response to the government's announcement to suspend operation and we will try our best to maintain our restraint."
He also urged all concerned "not to create confusion by quoting statements not made by the ULFA on serious issues concerning the people."
In an e-mail message to the media in Guwahati on Friday, Rajkhowa had said the ULFA "respected the Centre's decision to suspend army operations and as a reciprocal gesture has announced cessation of hostilities."
Rajkhowa hoped the ULFA's decision would bring about atmosphere conducive to talks with the government. He said the group's decision to stop hostilities was in line with the demands of the people of Assam.
Last week the Indian government suspended army operations against the guerrillas fighting for a separate homeland.
Message of praise
Members of the People's Consultative Group in New Delhi carried a message of appreciation from ULFA.
The group was appointed by ULFA to discuss modalities of direct talks with the Indian government.
"The talks were very cordial and we will be meeting again very soon next," said Indian Home Secretary V K Duggal.
Most of ULFA's demands for the holding of direct talks have been met except the release of arrested Central Committee members.
The convenor of the Peoples Consultative Group Rebati Phukan said, "we reviewed the situation, there was good response from the government. Next time the prisoners' release will be discussed, which is our main objective."
The government indicates it is willing to free the prisoners but there is unease behind the moves. (With PTI inputs)
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