Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made a strong appeal to militant groups to renounce violence and engage in dialogue for the development of the State. This call to action came on September 21, 2024, coinciding with the International Day of Peace.
On this significant day, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of peaceful discussions, stating, “Today on International Day of Peace, I call upon the armed groups to come to the discussion table and together chart a new dawn for Assam.” He stressed that “violence and terror will never yield positive results for the State, while discussions will ensure Assam’s ascend as a premier State.”
In recent years, various militant organizations in Assam have entered into peace agreements with the government, with many insurgents reintegrating into society. However, the ULFA (Independent), led by Paresh Barua, has yet to engage in negotiations with the government. The Chief Minister has reached out to Barua multiple times, urging him to participate in talks.
Notably, the proscribed ULFA (Independent) faction recently claimed responsibility for planting bombs at 24 locations on Independence Day, with authorities uncovering eight ‘bomb-like substances’ across multiple areas, including Guwahati. In light of these events, the Chief Minister warned Barua against actions that could endanger the youth’s future, emphasizing that Assam is on the brink of becoming a significant economic force in the coming decade.
This appeal for peace and dialogue is a crucial step towards ensuring stability and prosperity in Assam as it looks toward a brighter future.
Published – September 21, 2024 12:26 pm IST
