Staff Reporter, Guwahati: The Government of India has extended the ban on the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) for another five years, citing continued threats to national security. The decision, effective from November 27, 2024, was confirmed by a judicial tribunal headed by Justice Michael Zothankhuma of the Gauhati High Court on May 21. Despite being outlawed since 1990, the ULFA, particularly the faction led by Paresh Baruah, continues to push for a "sovereign Assam" through armed struggle. According to government submissions, the group maintains 200–250 cadres and approximately 200 weapons in Myanmar, where it operates four major camps and sustains links with other insurgent outfits for logistical and operational support. The tribunal reviewed documentary evidence and concluded that there was sufficient cause to label ULFA and its affiliated wings and front organisations as “unlawful associations.” The group remains involved in violent activities, including attacks on security forces, use of explosives, and efforts to disrupt national celebrations in Assam. In the past five years, Assam authorities arrested 56 ULFA cadres and 177 sympathizers, while 63 cadres surrendered. Additionally, security forces recovered 26 firearms, over 500 rounds of ammunition, nine grenades, and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Fifteen criminal cases, including those involving extortion, attempted murder, and conspiracy against the State, have been registered against ULFA. The Assam government submitted charge sheets in three of these cases as part of its justification for the ban extension. First proscribed in 1990, ULFA’s ban has been periodically renewed. The central and state governments maintain that its continued existence poses a significant threat to internal security and public order in Assam.
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