In a recent e-mailed statement to Assam-based media, ULFA spokesman Arunodoy Dohotia strongly opposed plans to set up an IAF base in Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims to be a part of its territory. China had no inimical interest against the Northeast Indian states. It was in a position to take over the oil-rich state of Assam in 1962, when the Chinese army defeated the Indians and Prime Minister Nehru virtually wrote off Assam. China was never opposed to the different tribes and communities living in the region, Dohotia claimed.

This part of the statement, Kolkata-based experts believe, seemingly parroted old Chinese arguments, rather than enunciating the ULFA”s own ideology. It could be a quid pro quo for the present support extended by Chinese authorities, albeit unofficially, to the anti-talk faction led by ULFA commander Paresh Barua. Following the split within the organisation over the decision by the majority of ULFA cadres to begin peace talks with the Indian government, Barua and his followers had taken shelter in the remote areas of Myanmar. The Bangladesh government threw them out and arrested its leaders. ULFA cadre have also visited China occasionally and procured arms, apart from receiving training. Barua is known to have taken a leading role in trying to forge an operational unity among the various NE-based insurgent groups from Manipur, Assam and other NE states. The idea is believed to have reported Chinese approval.

Officially China denies sheltering, harbouring or helping in any way any anti Indian insurgent organisation on its soil. And this was indeed its policy for some time in the recent past. However, China hardened its position against India markedly after the Indo-US nuclear deal was signed between its neighbour and the US, overriding its protests and apprehensions. It also expressed concern over the USA describing India as a strategic partner in the region. Evidence of mounting Chinese displeasure was found in increasing encroachments into Indian territory and airspace violation by its soldiers and air craft, in Arunachal Pradesh and elsewhere. About the same time, the anti talk ULFA faction established contact with the Chinese authorities. Current reports suggest that not only Barua lives in China at present, his family has also joined him there.

Interestingly, the statement from Dohotia called for an immediate movement,(if necessary violent) to stop the proposed land acquisition for the Indian Air Force facilities and airstrips, at Chabua, Jorhat and Tezpur. It also sharply criticised the imposition of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the Northeast. .

Observers feel that in the days ahead, with the anti-talk ULFA faction in the minority, there could be a spurt in hit and run attacks and explosions in the NE region, which could disturb the present spell of peace. (IPA)