Himanta Biswa Sarma to ULFA-I chief: Prioritize dialogue over bomb threats

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called on United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) Chief Paresh Baruah to cease any actions that could undermine the state’s burgeoning development. The appeal comes in light of recent bomb threats claimed by ULFA-I across multiple locations, including Guwahati, Sivasagar, Lakhimpur and Nagaon.

Sarma addressed the threats, which had reportedly set bombs to explode between 6 AM and 12 noon. However, ULFA later announced that technical issues had prevented the detonation and asked authorities to defuse the unexploded devices. The police have yet to confirm whether the bombs have been successfully neutralized.

Sarma stated the importance of focusing on positive economic developments rather than security concerns. “With Tata’s semiconductor plant and other anticipated business investments, Assam is poised for significant economic growth and job creation,” he said. “We have around 1.4 million unemployed youths who are seeking opportunities within the state. Disruptive actions could jeopardize these prospects and our state’s reputation.”

The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to resolving issues through dialogue. “I urge Paresh Baruah and ULFA to engage in discussions rather than creating disturbances,” Sarma said. “Our priority should be the peace and progress of Assam, not actions that hinder our development.”