The Threat That Shook Assam: ULFA(I)’s Latest Attempt
In a startling development, the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), commonly known as ULFA(I), has claimed responsibility for planting 24 bombs across various locations in Assam. This militant group, notorious for its insurgent activities over the decades, made the shocking announcement through an email sent to multiple media houses. The group stated that these explosive devices were intended to detonate on Independence Day, causing widespread devastation. However, the group claimed that due to “technical failures,” the bombs did not explode as planned, leaving the state in a heightened state of anxiety.
The email not only revealed the locations of 19 out of the 24 planted bombs but also made an unusual request—ULFA(I) asked for public assistance in locating and defusing the devices. This rare appeal for help highlights the seriousness of the situation and the potential danger that still looms over Assam. As the state government launched a massive search operation, police teams were dispatched to the identified areas, leading to the discovery of eight objects that bore the hallmarks of explosives.
Bombs in the Heart of Assam: Locations and Recovery Operations
The Assam Police, acting swiftly on the information provided by ULFA(I), initiated search operations across several districts, including Guwahati, Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari, and Nagaon. The city of Guwahati, the commercial hub of Assam, was one of the primary targets. Guwahati Commissioner of Police, Diganta Barah, confirmed that two suspicious objects were recovered within the city. One was found hidden under a pan shop in the busy Pan Bazar locality, while the other was discovered inside a BSNL switchboard near the Gandhi Mandap, a prominent landmark in the city.
Both objects were found to contain circuits, but crucially, they lacked any form of triggering mechanism. This has led authorities to speculate whether these devices were fully functional or intentionally left incomplete to create panic. The objects have been sent for chemical analysis to determine the exact nature of the substances they contained.
In addition to Guwahati, similar operations were conducted in other districts. The police successfully recovered six more objects from various locations across Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari, and Nagaon. These objects, like those found in Guwahati, appeared to be “explosive-like” but were devoid of any ignition or detonation mechanisms. Assam DGP G P Singh confirmed that all recovered materials have been safely disposed of, and a thorough forensic examination is underway to ascertain their potential threat.
Assam’s Troubled History with ULFA: A Look Back
The ULFA(I) has a long and violent history in Assam, with its roots tracing back to the early 1980s when the group was formed with the aim of establishing an independent Assam. Over the years, ULFA has been responsible for numerous acts of violence, including bombings, assassinations, and extortion, leaving a trail of destruction and fear across the state.
One of the most tragic incidents linked to ULFA occurred on Independence Day in 2004. A bomb planted by the group exploded at a playground in Dhemaji, where an Independence Day program was being held. The blast claimed the lives of 13 people, including 10 innocent children, and left many others injured. This incident remains one of the darkest chapters in Assam’s history, and the memory of that day continues to haunt the people of the state.
Despite efforts by the government to engage in peace talks with ULFA, the group remains divided. The pro-talks faction of ULFA signed a tripartite peace agreement with the Union and state governments on December 29, 2023, signaling a commitment to dialogue and reconciliation. However, the ULFA(I) faction, led by Paresh Baruah, has steadfastly refused to participate in any negotiations that do not include discussions on the sovereignty of Assam. This faction continues to carry out sporadic acts of violence, posing a persistent threat to the state’s security and stability.
Government Response: Ensuring Assam’s Progress Amid Security Concerns
In the wake of the latest bomb threat, Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has issued a strong statement condemning the actions of ULFA(I) and urging the group’s leader, Paresh Baruah, to reconsider his stance. The Chief Minister highlighted the significant progress Assam has made in recent years, particularly in attracting investments and fostering economic development. He emphasized that any disruption caused by militant activities could severely damage the state’s prospects and deter potential investors.
“TATA has brought the semiconductor industry to Assam, and many more investments will come to the state. After many years, Assam is seeing the face of progress and development… I request Paresh Baruah that for whatever reason, we should not create such a situation in Assam that it becomes unsuitable for investments,” Sarma said.
The Chief Minister also pointed out the importance of creating job opportunities for the state’s youth. He warned that if Assam’s industrial growth is hampered by insecurity, many young people may be forced to leave the state in search of employment elsewhere. “There are nearly 14 lakh unemployed youths here. If industry does not come, our youths will go to Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh to work as security guards. If Assam’s youths don’t stay in Assam, with whom are we going to make Assam developed or independent?” Sarma questioned, underscoring the vital link between security and development.
Conclusion: A State on Edge and the Path Forward
As Assam grapples with the renewed threat posed by ULFA(I), the state’s resolve to combat terrorism and safeguard its citizens remains unwavering. The recent recovery of explosive-like materials has heightened concerns, but it also underscores the effectiveness of the state’s security apparatus in responding to such threats.
The path forward for Assam lies in balancing security with development. While the government must continue to pursue peace talks with all factions of ULFA, it must also remain vigilant in its efforts to protect the state from any attempts to destabilize it. For the people of Assam, the promise of a brighter, more prosperous future is within reach, but it requires a collective effort to maintain peace and stability.
Also read: Assam Cabinet Approves Bill 2024 to Combat Urban Floods and Streamline Pension Processing
