[Previous entry: "PM likely to visit Ukhrul"] [Next entry: "Crucial Naga talks at Bangkok on January 28"]

01/26/2006: "Naga rebels head for talks as tensions rise"

Naga rebels head for talks as tensions rise By Biswajyoti Das
GUWAHATI, India (Reuters) - Leaders of a powerful separatist group in the eastern Indian state of Nagaland headed on Wednesday for peace talks in Bangkok, but tensions simmered as a rival faction vowed to avenge an alleged brutal attack.
A four-member delegation representing the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Issac-Muivah) (NSCN I-M) left for the Thai capital to meet Indian ministers -- possibly on Friday -- for talks on extending a ceasefire due to expire at the end of January.
"Four of our senior members have left for Bangkok today for discussion with Indian representatives on our demands and regarding extension of the ceasefire," Rh. Raising, a senior figure in the group, told Reuters by phone from Nagaland.
The NSCN (I-M), whose top leaders Thuingaleng Muivah and Isaac Chishi Swy will also be at the talks, has met Indian officials on several occasions since it started a ceasefire in 1997.
But there has been little progress over the rebels' central demands -- the unification of Naga-dominated areas in northeast India, something fiercely opposed by other ethnic groups in the region, and ultimately independence.
Nagaland is a mainly Christian state of two million people on India's far eastern border with Myanmar.
Raising said that the NSCN (I-M) would continue to demand the unity of Naga areas at the talks in Bangkok.
The NSCN -- which split into two factions in the late 1980s -- has been fighting for the freedom of millions of Naga tribespeople living in northeast India and neighbouring Myanmar since 1947.
On Wednesday, the rival Khaplang faction of the NSCN asked New Delhi to stop talking to NSCN (I-M), accusing the group of gunning down at least 13 tribal villagers in Nagaland's remote Mon district in December.
The Issac-Muivah faction denied the charge.
"If cadres of Issac-Muivah's gang indulge in terrorising and killing innocent people after Jan. 31, we will hold the government of India equally responsible," Kughalu Molatonu, a senior leader of the Khaplang faction, which has also agreed a ceasefire with New Delhi, told Reuters.
"We have been provoked to act in response to terrorist acts by the Issac-Muivah gang. We have decided to give a befitting reply throughout Nagaland," Molatonu said.
More than 20,000 people have died during the Nagas' campaign for independence.
Security analysts say peace with the Nagas is crucial to a broader peace in the northeast -- seven states connected to the rest of India by a thin strip of land and home to dozens of insurgent groups.
Crucial NSCN (IM)-GoI talks from Saturday The Imphal Free Press

Dimapur, Jan 24 : The next and the crucial round of talks between the NSCN-IM leaders and the government of India is likely to be held on Saturday.

Highly placed sources from the NSCN-IM set up in Dimapur informed Newmai News Network today that most probably the talks would begin from Saturday and would decide the fate of the cease-fire between the government of India and the NSCN-IM which has been going on since August-1,1997. The sources said that the duration of the talks may be just two days but can well be extended for more days if the necessities arise.

Meanwhile,editorials in the Nagaland based newspapers have started analysing and speculating the outcome of the proposed next round of talks.
Eyes on Jan 31 Editorial Sangai Express
The eight years old negotiation between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India has entered a crucial phase and expectedly all eyes will be on the outcome of the talk which has been tentatively fixed to be held from January 28 at Bangkok. The peace process is indeed at a critical juncture with Thuingaleng Muivah announcing for the whole world to see and hear that if nothing tangible is arrived at the talk then the ceasefire will not be extended beyond January 31. We can understand the frustration of the IM leader over the way in which the peace talk has been dragging all these years. Other than the Centre's emissary and of course the top rung political leaders of the Congress led Government and the IM leadership, no one seems to know the exact status of the peace talk, but the manner in which Mr Muivah has set the ultimatum indicates that the pace of the peace talk is not progressing as per the wish of the outfit. Naga NGOs have also raised their voice to bring an early solution to the Naga political issue and the rally staged at Ukhrul on January 24 indicates the anxiety and apprehension of the Naga people. However there is one irony in the stand of the Naga NGOs which is not lost on us. Almost all Naga NGOs have voiced their opinion that the cease fire should be extended and at the same time they have been demanding an early solution to the Naga political problem. Extension of the cease fire on the one hand and early solution on the other hand cannot be exactly complementary, but the message of the Naga NGOs is loud and clear. What is of utmost importance to the Naga people is peace at any cost and this is the message that should not be lost on the NSCN (IM) leadership too.
Now that Messrs Muivah and Isak Swu have had the opportunity to freely interact with their people after spending years on alien soil and in the jungles, perhaps they may now understand the complex social and political reality of the North East region a little more clearer. The politics and social condition have changed from the days that Muivah and Swu went into the jungles to wage a bush war against the Indian security personnel. It is this change that should be noted and if we may add appreciated too. For the peace talk to fructify and ensure permanent peace for the Naga people and their immediate neighbours, narrow parochial outlook have to be discarded by both the Indian Government as well as the IM faction of the NSCN. The Naga political issue should not be seen only through the lenses of the Naga people but also from a broader perspective such as the effect it has and will have on the neighbouring communities. The political and social reality in the North East region is such that a holistic approach is needed. No issue concerning a community or an ethnic group can be viewed in isolation at the cost of neglecting the neighbouring communities. This is what makes all issues confronting the North East region that much more complex and perhaps it is this difficulty that may be slowing down the peace process. Whatever the case, no efforts should be spared to ensure that the peace talk fructifies but at the same time, both the Govt of India and the Naga people should be ready to pay the price of peace, for peace always comes at a price and in this particular case, it will mean respecting the sentiments and rights of the other communities too.
Datta echoes Nagas’ growing desire for peace Republic Day Message Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 25
Extending his greetings to the people on the occasion of Republic Day, Nagaland Governor Shyamal Datta said that the Nagas’ yearning for peace has grown over the years and therefore there was a sense of hopefulness that the uncertainty over the extension of cease-fire would recede as a mark of conformity to the people’s wishes.
“Our march towards peace and development, and journey into the new century need to gather momentum with peoples’ participation and more enduring response to some of the key concerns” said Datta in his Republic Day message. “It makes us hopeful that the clouds of uncertainty that hover on the extension will recede as a mark of deference to people’s wish” he accrued.
The Governor also reminded the people to harness the huge potential of the State’s rich and varied natural and human resources. “Our destiny hinges on our ability to harness the huge potential of our rich and varied natural and human resources. The Bharat Nirman Programme and the Rural Employment Scheme of Government of India are meant to promote rural development through creation of employment opportunities and poverty alleviation” Governor Datta stated adding that the growth that improves living standards of future generations to become sustainable, was needed. Further, Datta affirmed that morality lie in the creation of a tolerant and open society with equitable sharing of benefit out of socio-economic progress.
Governor Datta also reminded the people that status, money and power do not constitute human values till these are driven by the attitude of care and concern to create well-being of the people and the community.
“For this, our greed and desire have to be realistic and cannot undermine the interest of the people. The emerging opportunities, including those that lie dormant in the ‘Look East Policy’, underscore the imperative need for greater commitment to work culture and good governance. The fruits of peace that we have been enjoying can be more delicious if we are able to govern ourselves better” Datta reminded. He also said that more platforms need to emerge for participation in policy making, implementation and accountability.
Governor Shyamal Datta asked the people be prepared to be a part of the fast changing environment, lest they be left far behind.
“As we celebrate Republic day, let us all resolve to work harder and usher in more peaceful, prosperous and promising future for our children and their children” Datta said.
Rio silent on ONGC plea RAJEEV BHATTACHARYYA The Telegraph
New Delhi, Jan. 25: The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has all but given up hope of resuming crude oil production in Nagaland following ‘lack of response’ from the state government on the security measures that the oil major had demanded.
Operations in the hill state were suspended in 1994, after ONGC installations were repeatedly targeted by militants. In May 2003, a meeting held in the capital between Nagaland and the ONGC had hinted at a possible resumption of crude oil production in the state.
However, senior ONGC officials said the Neiphiu Rio government has not yet responded to the company’s appeal for security cover if it began operations in the state again. “The deadlock has prompted the petroleum and natural gas ministry to negotiate with the state government on our behalf but nothing seems to be working out,” a highly placed source said.
In view of the earlier militant attacks, the blue chip company had argued that Nagaland police should be responsible for providing security and suggested that central forces be deployed in areas where it would be conducting operations.
In a report submitted to the ministry of petroleum and natural gas, ONGC made a case for at least three companies of the CRPF or Assam Rifles to be requisitioned on a “dedicated basis” for the protection of its assets and personnel.
It recommended the induction of a “suitable senior officer of the Intelligence Bureau” with previous experience of working in Nagaland and a retired SP as security advisor with a “good service profile and enjoying good relations with the local Nagas”.
Surveys have shown that Nagaland has reserves of 600 million tonnes of crude oil and natural gas spread over an area of 600 square km. Since 1973, 25 exploratory and 11 development wells have been drilled, with production reaching 250 tonnes of crude oil per day at Changpang in Wokha. Hydrocarbon reserves have also been found at Tynephe and Chumukedima.
The state government took the initiative to convene the Delhi meeting with the ONGC feeling that the resumption of production would create immense employment opportunities. After ceasefire agreements with militant outfits, the government assumed it would be safe to resume production.

North-east no longer isolated, says Nagaland Governor The Hindu
Kohima, Jan. 26 (PTI): Nagaland Governor, Shyamal Datta, today said the state, along with the rest of the north-east, is "no longer isolated" and with the amiable policies of the Centre and the state government, there is a unique chance for the Nagas to grow.
Unfurling the tricolour at the Civil Secretariat ground here this morning to celebrate the Republic Day that was held in the state amidst tight security, the Governor asserted that with the Centre's `Look East policy' and the state government's schemes intended to harness the potential of the people, the Nagas had unique opportunity to grow.
Highlighting various policies and programmes initiated by the government in different areas, Datta said Nagaland along with other north eastern states, was no more isolated, rather it was turning into a land of opportunites.
"There is a realisation, though slow and gradual, that the gun culture needs to be replaced by work culture, and today our youth are eager to join in the march towards growth, development, progress and prosperity," the Governor said.
Acknowledging the positive roles and contributions being made by tribal hohos, NGOs, religious and civil society organisations towards the cause of peace, Datta exuded confidence that the overwhelming desire of the Nagas for lasting peace would facilitate extension of the current ceasefire between the Centre and NSCN (I-M) beyond January 31.
After taking the salutes of the colourful march past, comprising contingents of Nagaland police, paramilitary forces and NCC, Datta unveiled a calendar that had agriculture as its theme, as the state government declared the year 2006 as the year of farmers.
The Republic day celebrations were also held in different district headquarters of the state.
Industrial parks opened in Nagaland New Kerala
Kohima: Nagaland has enlisted its name in the industrial map of the country with the inauguration of the Industrial Growth Centre (IGC) and the Export Promotional Industrial Park (EPIP) in Dimapur district yesterday by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

The industrial hub (IGC) is located about 33 km from Dimapur town and the commercial hub (EPIP) at Ganeshnagar under Dhansiripar sub-division on the outskirts of the town.

The IGC had been sanctioned under the 'Prime Minister's New Initiative for North East Region for Industrial Infrastructural Development' at a project cost of Rs 17 crore, of which the Centre bore Rs 15 crore.

The EPIP was built with a project cost of Rs 12.50 crore under a Centrally sponsored scheme, approved by the Union Commerce ministry during 2000-2001. The Centre bore Rs 10 crore of the total cost while the rest was borne by the state government.

Conceptualised for promotion of export oriented units, the EPPI is proposed to be converted into an agro-food processing unit later.

Nagaland villages to produce their own electricity
Kohima | January 26, 2006 2:14:54 PM IST Webindia

The Ministry of Non Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) has commissioned two power projects in Nagaland's Phek District.
The two projects - a Micro Hydro Power at Chizami village and a Biomass Gasifier Project at Pfutseromi village - are part of the Government's drive to provide energy for meeting growing needs of the people living in the villages.
Both projects are owned and operated by the Village Councils (CVC) through their Village Development Boards (VDB) and mark supply of their own electricity to the villages.
MNES Secretary A.M. Gokhale commissioned the Tuphaleri Micro Hydro Power project, which is developed and owned by Chizami and Sumi Village Councils and has a capacity of 200 KW (2x 100 KW). The Project has come up at a cost of Rs.2.32 crore and is funded through Central Financial Assistance (CFA) by the MNES to the extent of Rs.1.5 crore.
This project will take care of electricity shortage in the two villages through their own electricity and mark the empowerment of villages which have shown tremendous confidence and capability in implementing the Project.
It is believed if 1.04 million units Micro Hydro Power project utilizes its 70 per cent capacity then VDBs will have surplus electricity. They have begun negotiations with the State Electricity Board (SEB) for selling of the surplus power.
The project is also believed to lead to a chain of activities and enhance self-employment and small-scale industrial opportunities in an around the two villages.
Gokhale has also commissioned a Biomass Gasifier Project at Pfutseromi village. This project, which was set up at a cost of about Rs.38 lakhs, gets a financial assistance of Rs. 30.10 lakh from MNES.
It has a generating capacity of 2 x 50 KW. With the use of locally available biomass It will generate enough electricity to meet the needs of the Pfutseromi.
This will also help in providing employment opportunities for operating the plant and also generate fresh opportunities for the youth and citizens of the village.
MNES is encouraging such initiatives/projects in different parts of the country through the nodal departments of the States/UTs by providing guidance and support and financial assistance.
Several technological options suitable and sustainable according to local conditions are focus area of the Ministry, including iomass, small hydro, solar, wind, etc. (ANI)
Khaplang caveat to Ulfa A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph
Guwahati, Jan. 25: Serious differences have cropped up between the NSCN (Khaplang) and Ulfa, a development that could change the insurgency scenario in the region as the outfits had been strong allies, having logistic and military links.
Accusing Ulfa of “harbouring” its rival NSCN (Isak-Muivah) in Assam, the NSCN (K) today warned of a “befitting” reply to the extent of even stopping all logistic support it has been providing to the Assam-based outfit at its headquarters in Myanmar.
NSCN (K) chaplee kilonser (finance minister) Kughalu Mulatonu said Ulfa has been giving shelter to the NSCN (I-M) in areas along Assam’s border with Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. He said the two outfits are even engaged in joint armed operations.
“If Ulfa does not immediately desist from such activities of betrayal, we will be forced to take action against them. We will evict them from our Myanmar camps,” Mulatonu said.
Ulfa runs its training camps at the general headquarters of NSCN (K) and also has a liaison camp at the Naga outfit’s council headquarters in Myanmar. Ulfa has been a strong ally of the Khaplang faction since a split in the NSCN in 1988.
However, of late Ulfa has been drifting towards the NSCN (I-M) because of strategic reasons as the NSCN (I-M) has a strong presence in Tirap and Changlang — the twin districts in Arunachal Pradesh from where Ulfa’s most powerful and active 28 Battalion operates.
The Khaplang faction said the NSCN (I-M) has been waging a turf war against it in Mon district of Nagaland from Sivasagar district of Assam. The Khaplang faction was waging another turf war against the NSCN (I-M) in Tirap and Changlang from Tinsukia district of Assam with the help of Ulfa.
These three districts had a strategic importance for the NSCN (K) as they serve as entry points to its headquarters in Myanmar, where its chairman S.S. Khaplang is based.
Nagaland ushers in era of industrialization Morung Express News Dimapur
Nagaland Marching Ahead in Industrilization: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio alongwith other dignatories marching towards the venue after inaugurating the Export Promotion Industrial Park at Ganeshnagar near Dimapur on Wednesday. Also seen in the picture are Minister Khekiho, NIDC Chairman Tiameren and senior official Alemtoshi (Pix: Pradeep Pareek)
NAGALAND TODAY witnessed a milestone in industrial development with the inauguration of the Industrial Growth Center (IGC) and Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) at Ganeshnagar. The mini industrial city, about 35 kilometers away from Dimapur was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio. The 1000 acres mini township is a centrally sponsored project set up at a cost of 30 crores in 1997-98 to promote industrial growth and development in Nagaland under the department of Industries and Commerce and the Nagaland Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC). The IGC and EPIP have all the basic required facilities including police station, post office, fire services, hospital, school, telecom center, power station, community hall, health and medical center, separate housing complex, shopping complex, daily market sheds and even a playground and a children’s park. The EPIP implemented by NIDC has three industrial sheds, special designed factory, administrative building and sufficient plot to develop stalls for industrialists and entrepreneurs. Through the EPIP, units will export goods with tax-exemption while capital goods will be imported duty free.
Speaking on the occasion the Chief Minister said that industrialization is an extremely important component of the development process in a human society. It is in this backdrop that the Government of Nagaland has been endeavoring to evolve various policies and ways to promote industries in our State, he said. Adding a new chapter to industrial development, the genesis of the IGC and EPIP was conceived and now functional, said the Chief Minister. He however lamented that our experiences in the past has not been very encouraging mostly due to adverse law and order situation which generated unfavorable industrial climate. But with the inauguration of these industrial centers we have to gain momentum for industrial growth in the State, he stated. He therefore called up on the entrepreneurs to take up the initiative to set up industries and to avail the opportunity of State-sponsored industrial activities. He stated that our economic growth is being sustained only because of the agriculture and service sector so it was time that we focus on opportunities and our strength and evolve an appropriate vision for development of industries in the State.
“The process of these industrialization is no more in the hands of the government, it has to be the entrepreneurs who has to take the initiative to set up the industries”, Rio said, adding that the government can only play the role of facilitator and create the basic infrastructures like the growth centers. He reminded that tremendous opportunities await entrepreneurs and industrialists of Nagaland in various spheres but that industrialization cannot take place in an atmosphere of violence, he added. And therefore DAN Government is committed to help and facilitate to provide solution so that an acceptable solution to the long standing political Naga issue is formed, the Chief Minister said.
Conclusively, he made a fervent appeal to the youths to ‘move away from the present mindset of depending on the State government for their livelihood but start taking up private enterprise and entrepreneurship’ and added “We need the youths as assets and not as liabilities of the society”. The Chief Minister dedicated the Industrial Growth Centre and Export Promotion Industrial Park to the youth in particular and the people of Nagaland in particular.
Guest of Honour, Minister for Industries & Commerce and Sericulture & Border Affairs, Khekiho Zhimomi, said that a ‘box’ of employment opportunities have been opened today and challenged industrialists and entrepreneurs to exploit it. He also shared on the conception of the main idea behind the centers and urged the public and neighboring villages to protect and maintain peace in the industrial hub.
Talitemjen, Chief Secretary in his short speech urged the youths to take full advantage of the resources available and to upgrade their skills continuously with sustainability and quality control.
Chairman NIDC & NHL, Tiameren termed the mini industrial city as the first such project in Nagaland’s history.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by a host of dignitaries including Minister Tokheho, Works & Housing, P. Talitemjen Ao, IAS, Chief Secretary, Alemtemshi Jamir, IAS, Principal Secretary (Industries & Commerce), MLA Tiameren Aier, Chairman, NIDC & NHL, Addl. Chief Secretary, Lalthara, Parliamentary Secretaries, Yitachu and R. Khing, DC Dimapur, SP Dimapur besides other senior government officials, NGOs, entrepreneurs, leaders of the area and distinguished guests. The programme was chaired by Chief Secretary Nagaland, P Talitemjen, IAS, the welcome address was delivered by APC Alemtemshi IAS while the vote of thanks was offered by L Daniel Longchar, MD, NIDC and invocation was said by Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, Principal, OTS. Six contractors of IGC and EPIP were also awarded certificates of appreciation by the Chief Guest.
Assam Governor for strong military operation against ULFA Morung Express News
Guwahati, Jan 25 (UNI): Assam Governor Lt Gen Ajai Singh today favoured a strong military operation against the ULFA instead of talks.
‘’What is (there) to talk? They should surrender and seek rehabilitation. Otherwise they should be crushed because such talks only help the militants,’’ the Governor said while interacting with newsmen at the Raj Bhawan on the eve of the Republic Day.
His statement came as a shock to the newsmen, specially when the next round of discussion had been slated for February 7 by the Prime Minister’s Office two days ago.
When pointed out that his view was diametrically opposed to that of the majority as well as of the PMO, he said, ‘’this is my view and I have been saying it for two years. There is nothing to be discussed with the militant groups. They use these talks to regroup and come back.’’ The Governor’s tough view would further compound the fluid situation in Assam, as the ULFA has been insisting that the Centre was not sincere for talks and responded with 28 incidents of violence and bombing in the past five days killing five and injuring 26.
‘’You cannot force a situation for such talks and as a military man I do not subscribe to that. The best part is that civil society has responded to the threat and they do not care the threat anymore,’’ he said.
The Governor refused to recognize insurgency in Assam as a social or economic problem. ‘’These are militants. They should surrender the weapons and seek rehabilitation or face the security personnel,’’ he opined.
He, however, regretted that nobody sought his view in the ongoing peace process and gave enough hint that he could have lent his experience as the army general who led the first army operation against the ULFA in 1990.
He said Mizoram was the sole exception where any such talk ended on a positive result of permanent peace. ‘’Show me one example besides Mizroam where it was resolved through dialogue,’’ he asked.
When the media pointed to the peace process between Israel and Palestine or even with the Naga peace process, the Governor refused to equate these. ‘’My view is simple, surrender and seek rehabilitate,’’ he asserted
Puncture not the ceasefire letter to the editor Morung Express
There is a hazy confusion and disturbed instill in connection with the deadline of the ceasefire set aside by the supreme of the Naga Guerrilla, which is to be expired on 31st January, ’06 left only a few countable days more. The chief negotiation of the Naga Guerrilla had made a stern worded word that the truce of the ceasefire agreement will not be extended further any more period. Since it entirely failed to deliver any tangible and concrete outcome or in other words it does not serve the purpose objectives any more. As one perceives it, what the Naga Guerrilla advocate is not wrong. After more than right and half years of ceasefire and fifty plus talks are not in position to sort out positive result so far.
The proposed date for peace parley on 13th and 14th January, ’06, is differed to the last week of this month (after 26th Jan. ’06). Everyone is keenly aware and waiting for this crucial and decisive talk. Because it will really decides the fate of the ceasefire agreement to extend or to terminate of its life span. To continuing the present ceasefire the GoI should come out with certain assurances and commitments to the Naga people. Without any assurances and commitments, there is a bunch of doubt for the sincerity of the Indian politicians.
However, it is interesting that the Naga negotiations tabled/submitted some proposals and in return of this the GoI too made a country proposal to the Naga negotiators within the frame work of the Indian constitution U/A 244A, which is much more shorty than the Naga people demand. The said article is unfit and irrelevant to the Naga context. Back to the tenure of honourable late Jawaharlal Nehru. During his prime ministership he recommended, “Autonomy within large limits”. Here with this recommendation, I would like to share my opinion and view, if the word “within” is deleted. We should accept “autonomy large limits” and I do believe, the Naga people will response this in a positive tune. If it is offered by the GoI today. But it coverage must includes all the Naga areas.
Nearly sixty years of Naga people struggle are keeping in the darkness by the so called Indian politicians. Any genuine solution can be settled early if the Indian politicians are truly committed for the Naga issue. To revive the depleted confidence the GoI must avoid all the lame political excuses and on top of that they should not applying the formula of delaying and pending tactics.
Concerning or without concerning the Indian negotiation unilaterally asserted that the ceasefire will extend. But so far the Naga negotiations did not spell out any words regarding to the extension of the ceasefire agreement. Once the ceasefire is stripped off, the Naga Guerrillas will intensify it activities to attract the international community for it cause. Therefore, another round of blood bath is awaiting in the Naga hills. To prevent further blood shed the GoI needs to be tactful in dealing with the situation. How tough the negotiation might be, let’s not puncture the ceasefire. To resolve any conflicting issues mature and peaceful approach is the best rather than war and threat. Because the latter has harmful impact. Chachel Lokho Mao, Senapati
There’s nothing to negotiate with ULFA: Governor
Two days after the ULFA-sponsored People’s Consultative Group received a formal invitation from the Centre for the second round of talks, Assam Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Ajai Singh said there was nothing to negotiate on the issue of sovereignty with the United Liberation Front of Assam.
‘‘There is nothing to negotiate. Just lay down arms and join society,’’ Governor Singh said while interacting with the media at the Raj Bhavan.
He, however, clarified that he was not making any policy statement on behalf of the government. ‘‘This is my feeling that comes out of my academic knowledge,’’ he said.
Governor Singh also said that it was a normal strategy for militant groups to go for talks when they become weak. ‘‘This way they buy time, regroup and gather strength,’’ he said.
As the GoC of the Tezpur-based 4 Corps, Singh had launched the first-ever operations (Operation Bajrang) against ULFA in November 1990. His statement is certain to have repercussions, especially with the Centre opening the door for the talks. Singh also pointed out that Assamese society as a whole had already started dissociating itself from the ULFA.