Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Sunday said a top leader of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) had formally conveyed to him that the outfit was ready to hold talks with the government. He, however, declined to say whether the State government had received a formal communiqué from the ULFA leader.
Mr. Gogoi told journalists that the State government had received a definite message from the top leader. He declined to divulge the name.
The State government, however, told the ULFA leaders to rope in other leaders and cadres still at large, including the self-styled commanders of the ULFA battalions so that the talks can be fruitful.
Asked whether the government would release the jailed ULFA leaders to facilitate the talks, the Chief Minister said those who were willing to talk would be encouraged to come forward.
Mr. Gogoi said the government would convey the feelers by the jailed ULFA leaders to the Centre. He expressed the hope that self-styled commander-in-chief of ULFA Paresh Barua would also come forward for talks.
The six ULFA leaders in jail include its Chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa.
