GUWAHATI: The Union Government has decided to go ahead with the next round of discussions with the People's Consultative Group (PCG) of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) scheduled for June 22, despite the recent serial blasts triggered by the militant outfit. Rajiv Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Home Ministry, on Friday gave an indication to this effect to the Assam Government during a security review meeting at Dispur.

"We got the impression that the Central Government was quite unhappy with the ULFA continuing violence as it has vitiated the atmosphere for the peace initiative. However, despite the developments, the Central Government is keen to carry forward the peace process and hold the next round of discussions with the PCG on June 22 as scheduled," State Chief Secretary S. Kabilan told The Hindu after the meeting.

He said Mr. Agarwal reviewed the situation following the recent blasts and assessed the deployment of security forces.

The State Government submitted its requirement of additional forces to effectively deal with the situation. On the demand for release of ULFA leaders to facilitate direct talks, Mr. Kabilan said the State Government was given fresh advice by "various quarters" in the wake of the spurt in violent activities. "The Government has not taken any final decision and the matter is still under consideration."

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