GUWAHATI: An initiative by the Indian Army and Assam police aims to reach out to families of former members of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA). This effort seeks collaboration and trust-building for a peaceful future.
The initiative involves inviting ULFA cadre families to Army, CAPF camps, or Police Stations to foster trust and facilitate the integration of their children into mainstream society. This endeavor holds great potential for promoting peace and reconciliation in the region.
Assam DGP G P Singh highlighted the initiative’s objectives:
- Building Trust and Understanding: Bridging the gap between security forces and ULFA families to establish mutual respect and understanding.
- Encouraging Rehabilitation and Reintegration: Engaging with families to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of former ULFA members into society.
- Promoting Peace and Reconciliation: Fostering a sense of peace and reconciliation for a harmonious future in the region.
Speaking to The New Indian, B. Bokho, NLFB President, expressed gratitude to Assam’s Chief Minister and the Chief Executive Member of Bodoland Territorial Region for facilitating their transition into mainstream society.
The Assam government has undertaken extensive rehabilitation processes for former members of militant groups like ULFA, NDFB, and NLFB to ensure peace in the state.
The pro-talks faction of ULFA is nearing finalization of a peace agreement before the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Anup Chetia, the General Secretary, confirmed the group’s endorsement of a draft agreement, expressing optimism about its signing.
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Chetia emphasised the changing circumstances within the state that have led to this progressive step. The impending agreement is expected to provide financial assistance to over 700 former cadres for their rehabilitation.
Recently, the Assam government disbursed financial grants to ex-members of the National Liberation Front of Bodoland (NLFB). This significant move follows NLFB’s surrender in 2021, a crucial moment in restoring stability to Assam.
