TAG: GS 2: POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
THE CONTEXT: Recently, the pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) signed a historic tripartite peace deal with the Government of India and the state government of Assam.
EXPLANATION:
Assamese Identity and the Emergence of ULFA:
- The Assamese people, possessing a distinct culture and language, faced a growing sense of insecurity as economic development in the 19th century attracted migrants, altering the demographic landscape.
- The aftermath of Partition further fuelled tensions, leading to a six-year mass movement.
- In 1985, the Assam Accord aimed to address the issue of foreigners in Assam.
- Amidst this backdrop, the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was established on April 7, 1979, by radical thinkers seeking a sovereign Assamese nation.
Decades of Insurgency and Conflict:
- ULFA’s founders envisioned achieving Assam’s sovereignty through armed struggle against the Indian state.
- Over 44 years, this pursuit has been marked by violence including kidnappings, extortions, executions, and bomb blasts, resulting in tragic loss of life in Assam and beyond.
- In response, the Indian government launched operations like Operation Bajrang in 1990, imposing President’s rule and invoking the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Assam.
Complexities in ULFA’s Existence:
- The group has faced internal divisions and alleged external support.
- Factionalism within ULFA led to the emergence of Surrendered ULFA (SULFA), accused later of carrying out “secret killings.”
- Despite challenges, ULFA maintained camps in neighbouring countries like Myanmar, previously in Bangladesh and Bhutan, serving as operational bases and training grounds.
International Connections and Allegiances:
- ULFA has established links with other Northeast insurgent groups, organizations in Myanmar, and even affiliations with Islamic terror outfits like Harkat-ul-Jihad-e-Islami and Al-Qaeda.
- Reports suggest interactions between ULFA’s military chief Paresh Baruah and Osama Bin Laden.
- Furthermore, ULFA’s connection with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and open support for Pakistan during the Kargil War highlight its international engagements.
Shift Towards Peace Talks:
- In 2005, ULFA formed the ‘People’s Consultative Group’ (PCG) for talks, but the group later resumed violence.
- Some ULFA commanders, led by Arabinda Rajkhowa, initiated peace talks in 2008.
- However, opposition from Paresh Baruah led to internal division, culminating in the formation of ULFA (Independent).
- The pro-talks faction under Rajkhowa submitted demands to the central government in 2012, which led to discussions and culminated in the recent tripartite peace agreement.
Assessing the Peace Accord and the Future:
- The recent tripartite peace agreement signifies a positive step, potentially contributing to Assam’s peace and development.
- Experts and observers emphasize the need for government commitment to ensure the success of this accord.
- While the signed deal is considered a significant milestone, concerns remain regarding its comprehensive implementation and inclusivity.
- Assam’s Chief Minister expressed willingness to engage with the anti-talks faction led by Baruah, hinting at the complexities in achieving a complete resolution.
ARMED FORCES (SPECIAL POWERS) ACT, 1958
- The Act came into force in 1958 in the context of increasing violence in the Northeastern States, which the State governments found difficult to control.
- The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Bill was passed by both the Houses of Parliament, and it was approved by the President on September 11, 1958. It became known as the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958.
- AFSPA gives armed forces the power to maintain public order in “disturbed areas”.
- Under the Act, armed forces have the authority to prohibit a gathering of five or more persons in an area, can use force or even open fire after giving due warning if they feel a person is in contravention of the law.
- If reasonable suspicion exists, the army can also arrest a person without a warrant; enter or search a premises without a warrant and ban the possession of firearms.
- Any person arrested or taken into custody may be handed over to the officer in charge of the nearest police station along with a report detailing the circumstances that led to the arrest.
Conclusion:
- The journey of ULFA from insurgency to peace talks reflects a complex narrative entrenched in regional identity, conflict, and aspirations for sovereignty.
- The recent peace accord marks a pivotal moment in Assam’s history, but its true impact and sustainability depend on the commitment of all stakeholders involved, necessitating inclusive dialogue and comprehensive resolution of long-standing grievances.
