[Assam] We all have seen the Indian game plan with ‘ceasefire extensions’. ULFA must stick to TOTAL Indian troops withdrawal from Assam option riding on the current restraint strategy

[Bartta Bistar]

Army operations against ULFA suspended <javascript:clippopup(1920274);>
*[ 23 Aug, 2006 1627hrs IST** PTI ]*

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NEW DELHI: Giving fresh impetus to the peace process in Assam, the Centre on
Wednesday extended the suspension of army operations against the banned ULFA
for another 15 days from Thursday.

"As of now, we have decided to extend the suspension of the army operations
against ULFA for 15 days," Union Home Secretary VK Duggal told reporters
after a meeting here with two key mediators, Assamese writer Indira Goswami
and Rebati Phukan, negotiating on behalf of the group.

The meeting was also attended by National Security Advisor M K Narayanan.

"No incident has taken place in Assam during the last 10 days (since army
operations were stopped). But in case any violence takes place, this will be
reviewed," Duggal said.

The Centre had first suspended army operations against the ULFA on August
13, and the group responded five days later by announcing a "cessation of
hostilities".

Asked about the possibility of releasing five jailed ULFA leaders to
facilitate direct talks, as demanded by the group, Goswami said, "The
government has raised some points which ULFA has to clarify. Rebati Phukan
will convey the message to the ULFA and get the points clarified by them."

Phukan said, "There is every possibility that the five detenues will be
released by the end of August."

Duggal, however, said the Centre has sought a written commitment from ULFA
on three points, the group has to come for direct talks, parleys should be
held on a particular date and the representatives for this dialogue.

"We have also suggested that the top leadership of ULFA should come for
talks to make the dialogue meaningful. We will take a view on the date of
the direct talks when the mediators get back with the points (raised
today)," Duggal said.





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