Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that some positive development regarding the Armed Forces, Special Powers Act, AFSPA is expected during the year. Several groups in Assam are demanding to repeal the AFSPA. Talking to newspersons in Guwahati today the Chief Minister said, militancy was on the wane in the state, with all tribal militant groups already coming forward for talks. He lauded the efforts of the tribal civil society for taking steps in bringing peace to the state. But Mr.Sarma said, the demand for a discussion on ‘sovereignty’ remained the main hurdle in resolving the issues with Paresh Baruah-led ULFA- Independence. The Chief Minister said, he has learned from his personal interactions with people who are directly or indirectly in touch with Paresh Barua that the militant leader wants a negotiated settlement.
