Underscoring the multifaceted nature of the challenges faced during negotiations.

DILIP DAIMARY

The Internal Dynamics of ULFA: ULFA’s internal divisions have been a persistent challenge in the peace process. The hardline stance maintained by Paresh Baruah‘s faction has roots in differing ideologies and strategic approaches within ULFA itself.

The exclusion of this faction from the peace agreement highlights the difficulties in achieving a unified front among the various factions of the group.

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Paresh Baruah, as a prominent figure, continues to advocate for an independent sovereign Assam and has consistently rejected any compromise with the Indian government. His faction’s absence from the peace accord raises questions about the comprehensiveness of the resolution and whether it can truly represent the entirety of ULFA‘s aspirations.

The Potential for Ongoing Dialogue: While the exclusion of one faction poses a challenge, it doesn’t negate the potential for ongoing dialogue. The pro-talks faction, led by Arabinda Rajkhowa and Anup Chetia, has demonstrated a commitment to peaceful negotiations, and the peace agreement, if successfully implemented, could set the stage for broader discussions.

The challenge lies in addressing the concerns of those who remain resistant to dialogue, such as Paresh Baruah’s faction, in future negotiations.

The Role of International Diplomacy: The international dimensions of the conflict, including reports of Paresh Baruah finding refuge in China, add complexity to the peace process. International diplomacy will play a crucial role in managing these dimensions, ensuring that neighboring countries are supportive of the peace agreement and contribute to regional stability.

China’s potential influence on Paresh Baruah’s faction and its role in the broader geopolitical context necessitate a nuanced approach in managing international relations. A proactive and diplomatic engagement with neighboring countries will be essential to prevent external factors from derailing the peace process.

Challenges of Implementation: Beyond the signing of the tripartite peace agreement lies the significant challenge of its effective implementation. The success of the accord depends on translating its provisions into tangible actions that positively impact the lives of Assam’s residents. This requires coordinated efforts from the government, ULFA, and other stakeholders.

Ensuring that economic packages reach the intended beneficiaries, that cultural safeguards are upheld, and that land rights are genuinely protected will be critical. The challenge is not only to address historical grievances but to build a sustainable framework that prevents the resurgence of discontent and insurgency in the future.

The Importance of Ongoing Engagement: The signing of the peace agreement marks a crucial milestone, but the journey towards lasting stability is ongoing. Ongoing engagement with all factions, including those not currently part of the agreement, civil society, and grassroots organizations, will be vital in addressing evolving concerns and fostering a sense of inclusivity.

The government’s commitment to open dialogue, backed by concrete actions, will determine the success of these ongoing efforts. Civil society, with its nuanced understanding of local dynamics, can act as a valuable intermediary between different factions, contributing to the sustained success of the peace process.

The Socio-Economic Impact: If successfully implemented, the tripartite peace agreement has the potential to bring about transformative socio-economic changes in Assam. Economic empowerment initiatives, infrastructure development, and job creation can uplift communities and bridge the socio-economic gaps that have fueled unrest.

Moreover, the cultural safeguards outlined in the agreement can contribute to the preservation of Assam’s unique identity. Recognition and protection of diverse cultures can foster a sense of pride and unity among different communities, contributing to the broader goal of a harmonious society.

International Implications: The successful resolution of the Assam conflict can have broader implications for similar conflicts globally. The approach of combining dialogue, economic empowerment, and cultural safeguards can serve as a model for conflict resolution in regions facing similar challenges.

International organizations and diplomatic entities may closely observe the developments in Assam as a case study for achieving peace in regions with complex socio-political histories. The success of the peace agreement could serve as an inspiration for innovative and inclusive conflict resolution strategies worldwide.

As Assam, ULFA– led by Arabinda rajkhowa and Anup Chetia, and the Central government stand on the precipice of a tripartite peace agreement, the world watches with anticipation. This historic moment carries the weight of decades of struggle, sacrifice, and a desire for a new dawn of stability and prosperity in Assam.

The journey from armed conflict to peaceful negotiation, from insurgency to dialogue, is a testament to the resilience of the people and the leaders involved. The complexities of addressing diverse concerns, internal factionalism, and historical grievances have been formidable. However, the commitment shown by key political figures, the pro-talks faction of ULFA, and the engagement of civil society have paved the way for this landmark agreement.

While challenges persist, the exclusion of Paresh Baruah’s faction underscores the complexity of achieving a comprehensive settlement. The ongoing dialogue, commitment to economic empowerment, cultural safeguards, and recognition of land rights are critical components that must be vigilantly implemented for sustained peace.

N: B: One friend of mine, Mr A. K. Khound, sent me few words on the Peace-Talks, and I want to share those lines here to feel the feelings of a common person in Assam. He sent:

Praying that the proposed agreement on the 29th Dec’23 truly secures the future of indigenous people of Axom.

My limitted understanding of the political situation of the State had prompted me to predict on record six months ago to my close friends that an agreement with the pro-talk faction of ULFA would be closed before the General Election ’24.

Sitting on the recommendations of justice (retd)  Biplab Kumar Sarma Commission for such a long time was not accidental, rather an astute political sense of timing waiting for the opportune time, to my mind.

There is every reason to believe that the tripartite agreement to be signed on the 29th December ’23 will adress substantially the aspiration of the indigenous people of the State and the recommendations of the Commission having particular reference to clause six of the agreement signed with AASU  more than three decades back.

Being apolitical, I have no reason to grudge the party in power aiming for political mileage in the election season out of this agreement nor am I hesitant to give due credit to it for facilitating an agreement in the best interest of the indigenous people of the State.

Desperately hoping that the agreement in the offing becomes a true ” Raksha Kavach” for the indigenous people of the State.

As Assam enters this new chapter, it is not just a regional story; it is a global narrative of hope, resilience, and the possibility of transformative change through dialogue and cooperation. The success of the tripartite peace agreement holds the promise of a brighter future for Assam, setting an example for conflict resolution efforts worldwide.

28-12-2023

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