In a major development for Assam’s security situation, senior ULFA-I commander Arunoday Dohotia, also known as Bijit Gogoi, surrendered early on Saturday at Pangsau Pass along the Indo-Myanmar border. His personal security officer, Francis Axom, also laid down arms with him. The surrender took place in the presence of Assam Rifles troops deployed in the area.
Security officials said both men came forward on their own. They were taken into safe custody soon after the surrender. Officials also confirmed that the move comes at a time when the security forces have increased operations along the border to stop the movement of militant groups who still operate from camps across Myanmar.
Dohotia, known to be a close aide of ULFA-I chief Paresh Baruah, has been part of the group’s upper leadership for several years. He handled communication work for the organisation, including sending emails, statements, and video messages of Paresh Baruah to media houses. For a long time, he has been considered a high-value target for both Assam Police and central agencies. 
Investigators say Dohotia has been linked to several militant activities. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had earlier named him as one of the key planners behind grenade attacks on Army camps in Tinsukia and Jorhat in 2023 and 2024. His surrender is being seen as an important step in weakening the remaining strength of ULFA-I’s armed wing.
Security officials described Sunday’s development as a “major success” for the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the region. They said ULFA-I has been under pressure due to continuous operations along the border and the group’s shrinking space across Myanmar. Many other ULFA leaders and cadres have already returned to the mainstream in recent years after signing peace agreements with the government. But the faction led by Paresh Baruah has stayed away from the peace process.
Authorities have not yet said whether Dohotia’s surrender was the result of any talks or if he will receive rehabilitation benefits under the government’s surrender policy. Agencies are expected to question him about the group’s current strength, hideouts, routes across the border, and other activities.
Hours after the surrender became public, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that peace talks with ULFA-I cannot move ahead unless Paresh Baruah himself joins the dialogue. Speaking to reporters at an event in Rangapara in Sonitpur district, the Chief Minister said discussions with others would not help. “Talks will only be useful if they happen with Paresh Baruah. There is no use talking to anyone else from ULFA-I,” he said.
Sarma also said that Baruah has never agreed to the government’s request for talks. According to him, unless the ULFA-I chief shows willingness, there cannot be any real progress. The Chief Minister also denied speculation that the surrendered commander might be taken to New Delhi for discussions. He said there was “no plan” for any Delhi meeting and added that they may be taken to Tinsukia or Guwahati for further procedures and to meet senior police officials.
