Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressing the state's tribal militancy problem stated that the state's era of tribal militancy is gone, as all insurgent groups have approached the government for discussions in a press conference.
Sarma also remarked that the ULFA (I) demands' on sovereignty as a stumbling block and that his government is working to break the impasse.
"The period of tribal militancy has come to an end." All violent groups have expressed interest... ULFA is our final stumbling block (I). All other outfits, with the exception of them, have relinquished arms," he said. Civil society organizations and student organizations played a critical role in the state's tribal militancy problem.
According to the CM, his conversations with those who are directly or indirectly in contact with ULFA(I) chief Paresh Barua have revealed that the militant leader favours a "negotiated settlement."
"The stumbling point is the concept of "sovereignty." The ULFA(I) wants a dialogue on it, which we are unable to provide. We're attempting to break the impasse "Sarma remarked.
The chief minister stated that 2022 is a year of hope for positive moments for him.
"With regards to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, there will be some positive moments. We don't know how or when this will happen. But I'm hopeful," he added.
Earlier while speaking to media on the AFSPA issue, Himanta Biswa Sarma said If the law and order situation remains tranquil for a longer period of time, no state government wants to continue with the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.
"Withdrawal of the AFSPA is linked to the state's peace and stability. Following consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Arunachal Pradesh administration has revoked the AFSPA across most of the state, with the exception of three areas. The Assam government also believes that if the current peaceful scenario continues, we will be able to decide if we need AFSPA at a later date" he added.
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