CM Himanta discusses key issues with Union Home Minister Amit Shah

 STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Assam's Chief Minister Himanta has been holding discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi over the last couple of days regarding crucial matters such as the Kamatapur Liberation Organization (KLO) and ULFA talks, grant of ST status to six communities of the state, and seat-sharing for the ensuing Assembly poll in Nagaland.

The Chief Minister told the media on Thursday that KLO chairman Jibon Singh coming to the mainstream along with some cadres of the outfit is a positive sign. He, however, said that the type of negotiations and agreement that will be signed with the KLO is up to the Centre. He said that efforts are continuing regarding talks with the ULFA and the Centre has been already apprised about the problems being faced in this connection.

Sarma said that the Centre wants all problems of the North-eastern states to be resolved expeditiously and progress is being made in this direction.

Sarma added that discussions are being held with the Union Home Minister regarding grant of ST status to the six communities of Assam – Koch-Rajbongshi, Moran, Matak, Chutia, Tai Ahom and tea tribes.

With reference to the Assembly elections in Meghalaya and Nagaland, Sarma said that he and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had a meeting with Amit Shah wherein the details of the seat-sharing arrangement was finalized. As per the agreement, the Rio-led Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) would contest in 40 seats of the 60-member House, while the BJP would contest in the remaining 20 seats.

Regarding the Assembly elections in Meghalaya, Sarma said that the BJP would go it alone this time in that state.

Referring to the Gauhati High Court setting aside the death sentence awarded by the lower court to the accused Moinul Haque in the Arnamai Bora murder case, the Chief Minister said that it very rare for death sentences to be quashed by higher courts. He added that he go through the High Court's judgment and the government will move the Supreme Court if scope is found.

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