Did Assam CM Know About the Drone Attacks on ULFA-I Camps?
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Synopsis
Gaurav Gogoi, the Assam Congress president, claims that the recent drone strikes on ULFA-I camps could not have occurred without Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's knowledge. This assertion raises questions about the future of peace talks and the coordination between state and central authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Gaurav Gogoi claims drone strikes at ULFA-I camps were coordinated with the Chief Minister.
- The strikes could impede ongoing peace negotiations.
- Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma denies involvement of state forces.
- Indian Army refutes claims of conducting drone attacks.
- Concerns rise over future dialogues with ULFA-I.
Guwahati, July 15 (NationPress) Gaurav Gogoi, the Assam Congress president and Lok Sabha MP, asserted on Tuesday that the drone strikes executed by Indian forces at the ULFA-I base camps could not have occurred without the awareness of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Gogoi addressed the media, stating: “The accurate drone strikes conducted at the ULFA-I base camps must have been coordinated with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Such operations necessitate some level of coordination between the state administration and the Union Home Ministry.”
He highlighted that in recent months, Sarma had mentioned his discussions with ULFA-I commander Paresh Baruah regarding peace negotiations.
“Thus, it is likely that the centre informed Himanta Biswa Sarma about potential drone strikes,” he added.
The Congress president also expressed concerns about the future of peace negotiations with ULFA-I in light of these drone strikes.
“We have been anticipating ULFA-I to disarm and engage in peace talks. Nevertheless, the recent drone strikes could hinder progress in these discussions,” he remarked, noting that those killed in the drone strikes were Assamese individuals.
On Sunday, Sarma stated that the state police had no involvement in the drone attacks on ULFA-I camps.
He further clarified that the Army had not confirmed any such operations against the outlawed group.
Sarma emphasized the need for more information, asserting, “If such an operation did occur, the Indian Army would provide an official statement. Currently, we have received no communication from the defense establishment.”
The Indian Army has refuted claims that it conducted drone strikes on the ULFA-I's eastern headquarters in Myanmar.
Point of View
It's crucial to consider the implications for Assam's political landscape. While the assertion suggests possible coordination between state and central authorities, it also raises concerns about the future of peace negotiations with ULFA-I. Striking a balance between security and dialogue is essential for lasting peace in the region.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Gaurav Gogoi claim about the drone strikes?
Gaurav Gogoi claimed that the drone strikes on ULFA-I camps could not have occurred without the Chief Minister's knowledge, implying coordination between state and central authorities.
How might the drone strikes affect peace talks with ULFA-I?
Gogoi expressed concerns that the drone strikes could hinder progress in peace negotiations with ULFA-I, as they might provoke resistance.
What was Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's response?
Sarma denied any involvement by the state police in the drone strikes and emphasized that the Indian Army had not confirmed such operations.
