[Assam] Timely clarification by the ULFA puts the record straight.

[Bartta Bistar]

*No unilateral ceasefire, will exercise restraint: ULFA*



http://www.ndtv.com/morenews/showmorestory.asp?category=National&slug=No+unilateral+ceasefire:+ULFA&id=91785
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Sudhi Ranjan Sen

*Watch story <http://www.ndtv.com/ndtvvideo/default.asp?id=6418>*

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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