Maoists, ISI backing anti talk ULFA faction: Gogoi

Guwahati, Feb 24 (ANI): Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi recently revealed that Maoists and Pakistan's Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) were trying to make the northeast their base.

Gogoi further said they are also trying to join hands with different insurgent outfits in the region.

"Maoist activities are increasing in Assam. We are not denying it. They are increasing their activities in some districts. There is no doubt that they have established relations with the ULFA and other insurgency groups," said Gogoi.

"The ISI is also trying to get involved in this. We also discussed about the strategy that needs to be developed for it," he added.

Gogoi, who met Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, discussed security related issues of the state with him.

One of the highlights of their discussion was the strategy to tackle groups operating from Myanmar.

"Myanmar is the largest base for the militants. Not just of Assam, but also for the whole of northeast. We discussed their relationship with the local militant groups like the KIA (Kachin Independence Army) and also talked about what we can do as counter-insurgency steps," said Gogoi.

Though India has signed Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty to root out terrorism from Indo-Myanmar border, the presence of such groups still continues to pose a threat to the northeastern region.

Gogoi also said the state and the central government are taking all necessary measures to prevent any attempts at creating disturbances by the Anti talk ULFA group led by their commander Paresh Barua.

"Paresh Baruah is trying to grow as much as he can. Naturally everybody would like to increase their activities. He is also trying his level best to increase his strength also. To prevent him from doing so we have take up measures. We have kept our doors open for all sometimes settlement may take some time. But our doors are not closed for anyone," said Gogoi.

People in the northeast have for decades suffered violence now they want peace and normalcy return back in the region. They want insurgents to lay down arms and join the peace talks. (ANI)