New Delhi: In a significant political development, the pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) has inked a historic tripartite Memorandum of Settlement with the Centre and the Assam government. The signing ceremony, graced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, marks a pivotal moment for the ruling BJP.A momentous occasionThe ULFA pro-talks faction, led by the seasoned Arabinda Rajkhowa, assembled a 16-member delegation for the momentous occasion. Home Minister Amit Shah hailed it as a golden day for Assam, acknowledging the prolonged impact of ULFA-induced violence on the state.Peace for AssamExpressing solidarity with the people of Assam, Minister Shah recognised the states enduring struggle since 1979, resulting in the loss of approximately 10,000 lives. He affirmed that the accord would usher in a new era for Assam, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modis commitment to bridging the gap between Delhi and the Northeast.VIDEO | It is a matter of great joy for me that today is a golden day for Assams future. Assam has suffered from violence since a long time. Since Narendra Modi became the PM, efforts were made to shorten the gap between Delhi and Northeast. In the last five years, 9 peace and… pic.twitter.com/qjmAgrEqrP— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 29, 2023Development Package UnveiledAmit Shah revealed that a substantial development package is on the horizon for Assam as part of the agreement. The accord, he assured, would be meticulously implemented, bringing sustained progress to the region.ULFAs EvolutionULFA, founded in 1979, embarked on a separatist journey with a vision for an independent Assam. The pro-talks faction, while standing firm on their commitment to sovereignty, engaged in discussions with the government, signaling a shift towards a more diplomatic resolution.BJPs Northeast NarrativeThe signing of the ULFA peace agreement aligns with the BJPs narrative of improved conditions in the Northeast under the Modi government. Earlier initiatives, including the peace agreement with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) in Manipur, bolster the BJPs assertion of curbing militancy and fostering peace in the region.Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri @AmitShah Ji at the signing of a memorandum of settlement with ULFA.Watch Live:https://t.co/jVDofkyWSN— Office of Amit Shah (@AmitShahOffice) December 29, 2023A Testimony to DiplomacyTwo key leaders of the Rajkhowa group engaged in talks with government representatives, including peace interlocutor A K Mishra and Intelligence Bureaus Director Tapan Deka. This diplomatic effort, coupled with the ULFA accord, stands as a testament to the governments commitment to fostering dialogue for sustainable peace.In conclusion, the signing of the Memorandum of Settlement with the ULFA pro-talks faction reflects a turning point in the political landscape of Assam. As the region embraces a future of peace and development, the accord resonates as a symbol of diplomatic triumph, setting the stage for a more harmonious Assam.
