PM to ULFA emissaries: Talks yes, but no talk on sovereignty

Meeting representatives of the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) today, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, aware of apprehensions wi...

Meeting representatives of the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) today, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, aware of apprehensions within the security establishment, ruled out any talk on the key ‘‘sovereignty’’ issue, saying he was ‘‘a servant of the Indian Constitution.’’

While this morning’s meeting with the ULFA-selected People’s Consultative Group (PCG) was more ‘‘talking about talks’’, the Prime Minister made it clear: ‘‘I am willing to listen to whatever concerns that you have. I am a servant of the Constitution and you should recognise the complexity of our polity.’’

Though the ULFA representatives are keen that the Centre announce a ceasefire against the extremist group, official sources indicated that the Government has no intention of replicating the NSCN (I-M) model for a dialogue with the ULFA leadership based in Bangladesh.

Story continues below this ad

But the 11-member PCG, which met the PM and National Security Advisor M K Narayanan, appeared satisfied with the assurances. The next round of dialogue, for which dates have not yet been fixed, will be held with appointed representatives of the Home Ministry.

The dialogue with the ULFA takes place at a time when the ruling Congress in Assam gears for Assembly polls next year.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, PCG member Arup Borbora, son of former Assam Chief Minister Golap Borbora, said that the ‘‘long standing conflict can be resolved through sustained political dialogue.’’

Describing today’s talks as ‘‘positive’’, he said there would be similar talks in the future. ‘‘The PM has agreed to discuss all issues, including those which the ULFA is pushing through the people,’’ he maintained.

Hamas under pressure to respond to Gaza peace plan as Trump says will give ‘three or four days’

Trump gives Hamas 3-4 days to accept Gaza peace plan, with a warning

2 hr ago

US President Donald Trump has given a tight deadline to Hamas for accepting his Gaza peace plan, warning of a “sad end” if if they refuse to accept the conditions. Palestinian militant group Hamas is yet undecided on whether to accept the peace deal proposed by US President Donald Trump on Monday.

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS