Mahanta proposes joint military action in Bhutan

By Manoj Anand
Guwahati, July 10

Close on the heels of Bhutan National Assembly’s resolution to start a military operation to drive out Indian militants from its territory, Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta has proposed launching a joint military action against the militants holed up in the Bhutan forests.

Distributing a copy of the resolution, published by The Asian Age on Monday, Mr Mahanta said: “In case Bhutan finds it difficult to launch an Army operation on its own against the militants, we think they should not hesitate to take help of the Indian Army. I urged upon the Government of India to discuss with the Bhutan government about the possibility of launching a joint military action against the militants.”

Welcoming the Bhutan’s move on Monday, he said, “We hope that our other neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Burma will also take similar steps without any further delay to evict the Ulfa and other insurgent groups operating from their countries.”

He lauded the Bhutanese leaders for taking such a bold initiative to effectively address the problem that has been disturbing both Assam and Bhutan for last eight years.

“Such stern steps, if taken will enable the Bhutanese to get rid of the armed intruders, whose presence is infringing upon their sovereignty and security,” Mr Mahanta said, adding that it would also remove the feelings of suspicion and misunderstanding among Indians, who are compelled to perceive that Ulfa and Bodo militants had a safe sanctuary in Bhutan and its government was taking a lenient view.

About financial problems that may confront small countries like Bhutan in launching military operation, Mr Mahanta suggested that India should also look into this aspect seriously. He said all the bordering district headquarters have been alerted as the ultras may try to sneak into Assam. Vigil along the international border has already been intensified and security forces have been kept on high alert, he added.

Assam chief minister also renewed his appeal to the Ulfa and NDFB leaders to come forward for talks. He “I appeal them that before they reach the dead end of the tunnel, let them come forward for talks; we still accept them as our friends in our struggle to develop Assam and India,” he said.

“Whatever pretensions they have so far, it is time for them to reconsider their stand even now and respond positively to our appeal for talks within the frame-work of Indian Constitution. This alone can save them from disaster towards which they are moving fast,” Mr Mahanta reiterated.