Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the state government will not move ahead with any peace process with the banned ULFA-Independent unless its chief, Paresh Baruah, personally participates in the talks. The Chief Minister said that any serious dialogue can begin only when Baruah himself comes forward and shows willingness to engage.
Sarma was speaking to reporters in Rangapara under Sonitpur district, a day after two senior ULFA-I members surrendered near the Indo-Myanmar border. Arunoday Dahotia, who is described as a self-styled “Major General” of the outfit and considered close to Paresh Baruah, surrendered along with his personal security officer Francis Axom at Pangsau Pass on Saturday. Their surrender was seen as a major development because Dahotia has long been part of the organisation’s core military structure.
The Chief Minister said that although the surrender of senior leaders is an important step, it does not change the basic position of the government. He said that only a direct conversation with Paresh Baruah can lead to meaningful progress. According to him, discussions with any other representative will not help in resolving the long-standing conflict. 
Sarma also dismissed reports that the surrendered leaders would be taken to New Delhi for any political-level talks. He said there is no plan for such a move and clarified that they may stay in Tinsukia or come to Guwahati to meet the Director General of Police. He said the process would follow normal procedure and nothing more should be read into their surrender.s in the Brahmaputra and Bhagirathi, earning respect from swimming communities across the country.
