Uncertainties Surround Alleged ULFA-I Camp Strike: CM Sarma Awaits Official Confirmation

Guwahati, Assam – A wave of speculation has gripped Assam following unconfirmed reports of a significant missile or drone strike targeting a United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) camp located near the India-Myanmar border. Amidst the swirling rumors, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stepped forward to clarify the state government’s position, asserting that no official confirmation of such an incident, particularly regarding a ULFA-I camp strike, has been received as of yet.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, CM Sarma directly addressed the growing public concern and media queries regarding the alleged ULFA-I camp strike. He unequivocally stated that Assam Police had no involvement in any such operation. “There has been no strike from Assam’s soil. Assam Police is not involved in this incident,” the Chief Minister affirmed, aiming to quell widespread speculation about the state’s direct role in the alleged attack.

The Chief Minister’s remarks underscore the delicate balance of information and verification in matters of national security. He emphasized that the government is actively monitoring the fluid situation and is in constant touch with central agencies, awaiting formal details. “If such an operation has taken place, the Indian Army will provide the necessary information. Until then, we cannot confirm anything,” Sarma stated, highlighting the procedural channels through which such sensitive information is disseminated. He also expressed cautious optimism that the situation would gain more clarity by evening, indicating ongoing efforts to ascertain the facts.

This development follows a provocative statement issued by the banned militant outfit ULFA-I itself. The group claimed that Indian forces had indeed targeted their camp during the funeral of their senior leader, Lt. Gen. Nayan Asom. In a shocking accusation, ULFA-I alleged that the purported ULFA-I camp strike resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking insurgents, including Brigadier Ganesh Asom and Colonel Pradip Asom. The outfit condemned the alleged attack as “barbaric” and, perhaps more ominously, threatened retaliation. However, it is crucial to note that ULFA-I provided no concrete evidence or verifiable proof to substantiate its claims of the ULFA-I camp strike or the reported fatalities.

As of Sunday evening, a conspicuous silence has been maintained by official central government channels. Neither the Ministry of Defence nor the Indian Army has issued any statement or commentary regarding the alleged ULFA-I camp strike, leaving the claims by the militant group unverified and adding to the ambiguity surrounding the incident. This lack of official confirmation from security forces further complicates the narrative and underscores the need for patience as authorities conduct their inquiries.

The alleged ULFA-I camp strike, even if unconfirmed, has reignited a critical discussion on Assam’s protracted insurgency problem. For decades, the state has grappled with various militant factions, including ULFA-I, which has historically advocated for an independent Assam. Despite the challenges, the current state government has made significant strides in recent years, prioritizing dialogue and encouraging surrender initiatives to bring the remaining militant factions into the mainstream. The focus has been on achieving a peaceful resolution to these long-standing conflicts, fostering stability and development in the region.

The Chief Minister’s measured response reflects the government’s commitment to verifiable information and its cautious approach to sensitive security matters. While the rumors of a devastating ULFA-I camp strike continue to circulate, the emphasis remains on official channels providing accurate and confirmed details. Until then, the state and its citizens remain in a state of watchful anticipation, hoping for a clear picture to emerge from the shadows of unconfirmed reports. The incident, regardless of its veracity, highlights the persistent challenges in the North Eastern region and the continuous efforts required to maintain peace and order. The journey towards a completely peaceful Assam, free from insurgency, is a complex one, marked by ongoing efforts towards dialogue, rehabilitation, and robust security measures to prevent such groups from gaining ground. The alleged ULFA-I camp strike serves as a stark reminder of these enduring complexities.