Guwahati, August 28, 2024 – Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has reiterated the urgent need for peace in the state, emphasizing that prolonged unrest could jeopardize the future of Assam’s youth and deter potential investments. Addressing the issue, CM Sarma stated, “The biggest loser of a violent and disturbed Assam will be its youth as no industry will feel confident about investing in the state.”
In a direct appeal, Chief Minister Sarma called on Paresh Baruah, the leader of the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I), to cease activities that could destabilize the region. “I again call upon Paresh Baruah not to vitiate the atmosphere of peace in Assam to ensure our growth trajectory remains unabated,” he said, urging the insurgent leader to prioritize the state’s development over conflict.
This appeal follows a previous request made by Sarma on August 15, urging Baruah to refrain from anti-development actions in Assam. The call for peace came in the wake of a series of bomb threats claimed by ULFA-I across several locations, including Guwahati, Sivasagar, Lakhimpur, and Nagaon. The threats, reportedly scheduled to explode between 6 AM and 12 noon, had sparked widespread concern.
Highlighting the stakes involved, Sarma warned that disruptive activities could severely impact Assam’s economic prospects. “Assam will see fast economic growth with the semiconductor plant of Tata and other proposed investments in businesses. We have about 1.4 million jobless youths who wish to find jobs within the state. The disruptive activities will destroy those prospects as well as the reputation of our state,” he cautioned.
Underscoring the government’s commitment to peaceful resolution, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of dialogue over conflict. “I appeal to Paresh Baruah and ULFA to hold discussions instead of creating trouble,” Sarma urged. “We should work for peace and prosperity for the people of Assam rather than creating obstacles.”
With this renewed call for peace, CM Sarma aims to steer Assam towards sustained growth and stability, ensuring a brighter future for the state’s youth.