ULFA bandh silences Assam

Facing the ire of a12- hour bandh called by the banned outfit ULFA, shops
across the state capital and Ulubari as well as Kalapahar remained closed. “The
last time we had a bandh of this sort was about six months ago. In the state, no
one dares to disobey a bandh called by ULFA. Life has come to a halt since
morning and I wasn't able to leave my house at all,” said Guwahati-based
Surendra Kumar Choraria of Jain Infosys.

“The bandh has a serious effect on our business. In times of slowdown,
everyday is important for us and closing for even a day results in severe
losses. In upcoming areas like Guwahati, this is even acute,” Choraria added.

While all shutters are down across Cahattri Bari, GS Road and AP Road,
dealers are optimistic that this time, the bandh and its repercussions will not
last long. “Assam has always been plagued by militants, ever since we entered
business. Previously, extortion calls and kidnapping were rampant in the region.
However, the scenario has changed now and extortions are limited to the rural
areas and the hills, a dealer commented.

ULFA said it will not disturb the examinations of schools and colleges, water
and milk supply, hospitals and medical services, electric supply and media.

“This has been a good gesture by ULFA. It signifies that Assam is coping with
the industrial and corporate revolution taking place in the nation, ” said Sunil
Mohta of Guwahati-based Advantage.