ULFA may withdraw National Games boycott call

The United Liberation Front of Assam may reconsider its National Games boycott call.

The first indication came from ULFA chairman Aurobidno Rajkhowa who late Tuesday night called up media organisations from his secret location to inform that a 'positive decision regarding the reconsideration would be taken in a day or two.'

The information from ULFA sources said the militant organisation might withdraw the boycott call and announce it on the eve of the Republic Day. The sources, however, said that bomb attacks will continue till the Republic Day and then 'possibly ease off.'

Although the Assam government had been publicly saying that the Games will be held on time, a second channel had been opened through the Assam Olympic Association, via the Indian Olympic Association, to save the Games. AOA member Hiranya Saikia, who is one of ULFA's staunch allies, told media persons on Tuesday evening that the Games could be organised peacefully if the state government released the five jailed ULFA leaders.

Saikia is the vice-president of the All Asom Taewkonndo Association and a crucial member of erstwhile Peoples Consultative Group, which was formed by the ULFA to set up discussion with the Centre.