Can Peace Survive a Drone Strike? Rajkhowa Warns of Setback in Assam Dialogue

Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman of the pro-talks faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), has expressed deep concern over the recent drone strike on a ULFA-Independent (ULFA-I) camp in Myanmar, calling the incident "mysterious" and a setback to the prospects of a peaceful political resolution to the Assam conflict.

In his first public reaction following reports of the attack, which allegedly killed at least three senior ULFA-I leaders, Rajkhowa said he became aware of the incident through news reports and social media. He noted the parallels drawn by many with India’s past cross-border strikes such as "Operation Sindoor," but pointed out that in this case, the Indian Army has yet to officially claim responsibility.

“This strike is mysterious. The Indian security forces have not acknowledged any involvement so far,” Rajkhowa said.

He emphasized that while ideological differences persist between various factions, the loss of young lives from Assam is a collective tragedy.

“No matter the ideology, the death of these brave Assamese youths is heartbreaking. It is not just a loss for a few families — this grief touches the entire people of Assam,” he said.

Reacting to the broader implications of the incident, the ULFA (pro-talks) leader stressed the need for a political solution rather than militaristic measures. He acknowledged ULFA-I commander Paresh Baruah’s path of armed struggle but insisted that dialogue remains the only sustainable way forward.

“You cannot drop bombs one day and talk about peace the next. Such duplicity will never bring resolution. If the State truly wants peace, it must demonstrate political will — not firepower,” Rajkhowa remarked.

The veteran leader further stated that Baruah has not contacted him personally regarding the drone strike, but called the situation "highly sensitive."

He also warned against viewing this assault as a definitive blow to ULFA-I’s operations.

“This attack cannot annihilate ULFA-Independent. At most, they may be weakened for a time — but they will not disappear,” he asserted.

According to Rajkhowa, the long-standing issues that gave rise to insurgency in Assam have yet to be addressed in a meaningful manner. He cautioned that unless the government acts with sincerity, the cycle of resistance would continue — in one form or another.

“Even if ULFA-Independent does not survive under that name, the struggle will persist under another banner — as long as exploitation and injustice against Assam and its people continue,” he said.

The drone strike, which reportedly occurred in Myanmar’s Sagaing region, has sparked renewed debate over India’s counter-insurgency tactics and the role of cross-border operations in the Northeast. While official confirmation remains absent, visuals and reports circulating online suggest that the camp was targeted with precision drone munitions, resulting in high casualties among ULFA-I cadres.

Arabinda Rajkhowa’s statement adds a fresh layer to the evolving discourse, as voices from within Assam call for transparency, restraint, and a renewed commitment to political dialogue to bring lasting peace to the region.

AJYCP Urges Peace Talks After Deadly Myanmar Strike on ULFA Camp

Meanwhile, the Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) has called for renewed efforts to bring both the banned militant outfit and the Indian government back to the negotiating table.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, AJYCP president Palash Changmai expressed concern that the recent assault could severely undermine prospects of dialogue between the outfit’s self-styled commander-in-chief Paresh Baruah and the Assam government.

“For years, we have heard talk of possible negotiations between Paresh Baruah and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Yet, for the past nine years, ULFA has shown no real inclination towards peace talks,” Changmai said.

He condemned the use of drones and missiles in cross-border strikes, likening the operation to high-impact security events like the Pulwama attack. “We have never supported such military actions. Violence only worsens the situation,” he added.

While reiterating that ULFA is a proscribed and unlawful organization under Indian law, Changmai said the issue cannot be resolved solely through security operations. “Everyone acknowledges ULFA's banned status. But for Assam, this is also a deeply emotional and political issue. The organization is viewed here as a rebel force, and that perception also exists at the national level,” he noted.

Referring to the human cost of decades-long insurgency, Changmai said, “From the 1990s till now, close to 18,000 to 20,000 youths have lost their lives. We urge the government to recognize this tragic loss and bring the chapter to a close through dialogue and political will.”

AJYCP asserted that only a structured and meaningful negotiation process can bring lasting peace to Assam. “This must end through recognition and dialogue, not more deaths,” Changmai said.

The organization has appealed to both ULFA and the government to act in good faith and resume the peace process before further escalation occurs.

Also Read: Anup Chetia Questions Motive as ULFA(I) Camp Faces Deadly Assault