Assam: Centre Set To Sign Historic Deal With ULFA, Ending Decades-Long Insurgency

In a monumental stride towards resolving the decades-long insurgency in the northeast, the Centre is on the verge of signing a historic peace deal with the pro-talk faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).

The upcoming peace deal, to be finalised with the presence of Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is a major breakthrough in the government's efforts to address insurgency in the northeast.

As reported by NDTV, scheduled for signing today (29 December), the pact involves the pro-talk faction led by Anup Chetia and Aravinda Rajkhowa, indicating a positive willingness for dialogue.

However, the ULFA (Independent) faction, led by Paresh Barua, remains in opposition, underscoring the complexities of the peace process.

The ULFA, formed in 1979 with the goal of "restoring Assam's sovereignty," has been a key player in the region's armed insurgency, responsible for numerous attacks.

The peace deal not only marks the end of insurgency but also addresses fundamental issues raised by the ULFA, notably the question of sovereignty.

One of the pivotal demands addressed in the peace deal is the formal acknowledgment of six communities in Assam, including Moran, Muttock, Tai-Ahom, Koch-Rajbongshi, Sootea, and Tea Tribes, as Scheduled Tribes (ST).

This recognition could potentially result in nearly 50 per cent of Assam's population attaining tribal classification, altering the demographic landscape of the state.

The comprehensive peace deal is expected to encompass a financial package, new land reservation measures, rights for Assam's indigenous communities, and a review of the citizenship list.