Anti-Talk Faction of Ulfa is Ready for Talks if Sovereignty Discussed: Paresh Baruah

GUWAHATI: A day after signing of the peace accord with the pro-talk faction, Ulfa (Independent) chief Paresh Baruah, who leads the anti-talk faction of the outfit, said he was waiting for Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s word on convincing the Centre to discuss the “sovereignty” issue during the negotiations.

The 66-year-old Ulfa (I) military commander, who spoke to local newspapers, reiterated that Ulfa (I) was not against dialogue, but wanted an assurance that the issue of sovereignty, which he said was Assam’s historical political right, will be discussed.

“We have told the Assam CM clearly that we cannot go to the discussion table without the assurance that sovereignty will be discussed. The only thing the CM probably needs is the support and right guidance from Assam’s intellectuals,” Mr Baruah said.

He asserted that discussions on sovereignty wouldn’t violate the Indian Constitution, highlighting the importance of addressing all issues in a democracy. “The Indian Constitution does not bar discussions on sovereignty. Discussion on sovereignty will not destroy the sanctity of the Indian Constitution. Rather, it will add more shine to the Constitution. True democracy will be reflected if the Constitution allows discussion on every issue. One nation, one rule alone will not serve the purpose unless you discuss all issues,” he said.

It is significant that the Assam chief minister on Friday had said the deal with Ulfa would facilitate efforts to involve Ulfa (I) in the peace process. “There were suggestions in the state that talks cannot be held with both factions together, and so now we can make our efforts to get Paresh Baruah to the discussion table,” he said.

Mr Baruah acknowledged the possibility and expressed hope that Mr Sarma would persuade New Delhi to facilitate the peace talks.

Mr Baruah also extended good wishes to Ulfa cadres, emphasising their newfound freedom after decades in designated camps. Mr Baruah said that he was not surprised, angry, frustrated, or disappointed with the peace deal. “We knew this outcome 13 years ago. No one goes for discussions to sign a pact that has been arranged,” he said.

He said the agreement lacks specificity as it doesn’t provide a detailed description of what has been granted and the mechanisms for implementation.