Assam: ‘Disillusioned’ Ulfa-Independent leader surrenders in Tinsukia district

DIBRUGARH: A senior leader of the Ulfa (Independent) surrendered before the security forces in Tinsukia district on Saturday. Self-styled captain Jugen Mili alias Himalay Asom, a resident of Disangmukh area of Sivasagar district, had joined the Ulfa in 1996. His surrender is seen as a major jolt to the militant outfit.
“There is growing disillusionment among the rank and file of the Ulfa-I. Even their leaders are now realising the futility of the arms struggle, which they have been carrying on since the last 42 years. Today’s surrender is the result of that. Several senior Ulfa-I leaders and cadres have returned to the mainstream.
This is a very good sign. There is no craze for the Ulfa like before. Many Ulfa men have sent feelers about their intention to give up arms. As per the government policy, we are facilitating their surrender. However, if they are found to be involved in criminal activities, action will be taken as per law,” Tinsukia SP Debojit Deuri said.
Mili is the third prominent Ulfa-I leader after Drishti Rajkhowa and Jibon Moran to return to the mainstream in recent times. He had married a Myanmarese woman during his stay in the neighbouring country and has a daughter.
“It is true that most of the Ulfa-I cadres based in Myanmar are frustrated and disillusioned. They have realised that the dream of an independent Assam can never happen. Several Ulfa cadres, who have surrendered before us, have spoken about the growing disillusionment among the rank and file of the outfit.
Survival is becoming a concern for them as their supply routes are being choked, and funds flow is getting restricted due to intense operations by security forces. Many have fled their camps while some of them are waiting in the wings to escape,” said an army official.