Guwahati, March 2: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken a significant step towards fostering peace and reconciliation in the region by allocating rehabilitation funds to former cadres and families associated with the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA). The ceremony, held at Srimanta Shankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati, marked a pivotal moment in the state’s efforts to reintegrate former insurgents into society.
Under this initiative, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma disbursed financial assistance to dedicated ULFA cadres and families who have been affected by counter-terrorism operations or have relatives who have gone missing. The assistance encompasses various forms of support, including a vocational training program aimed at equipping beneficiaries with essential skills for self-reliance. Each member received a one-time assistance of Rs 4 lakh through fixed deposit certificates, totaling 852,000 beneficiaries, in line with the Samarpan cum Rehabilitation Scheme sponsored by the Government of India.
Furthermore, Rs 3 million was allocated to 45 individuals who sustained injuries during counter-insurgency operations, with an additional special amount of Rs 3 million provided. Additionally, Rs 5 lakh was granted to eight individuals in acknowledgment of their suffering, while Rs 10 lakh was offered to support the next of kin of 31 missing ULFA cadres.
This initiative stems from the Tripartite Peace Agreement inked between the Centre, the Assam government, and the pro-ULFA faction in December 2023. The agreement underscores collaborative efforts to ensure sustainable peace and stability in the region, with initiatives like the recent resettlement allotment playing a crucial role in the ongoing peacebuilding process.
The Government of Assam’s commitment to addressing the grievances and needs of former insurgents and their families is evident through this initiative. Moreover, it highlights the significance of an inclusive approach in post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation efforts, laying the groundwork for a more harmonious future in Assam.
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