Summary:
Guwahati, Jan 23 (PTI) In view of the prevailing COVID-19 situation, Paresh Barua-led ULFA (Independent) has refrained from calling bandh on Republic Day for the first time in over two decades.
Welcoming the insurgent outfit"s gesture, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hoped that such confidence-building measures may lead to a formal discussion between ULFA (I) and the Centre in the future.
In a statement emailed to the media, Barua said that ULFA (I) will not call for bandh or boycott of Republic Day celebrations keeping in view the COVID-19 situation.
He, however, urged people to abstain from participating in the celebration due to the pandemic.
Welcoming the decision, Sarma told reporters here, "ULFA (I) chief Paresh Barua has refrained from calling bandh on Republic Day due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is a welcome step.