Gogoi renews call to ULFA hawks for talks

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday renewed appeal to anti-talk ULFA leader Paresh Barua and others to abjure violence and sit across the table to solve their problems through democratic means.

"Violence has no place in our society. Those who have taken up arms, must realise the futility of violence for the good of the state and the country as a whole," Gogoi said while leading the state in paying homage to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 21st death anniversary in Guwahati.

Gogoi said, "Rajivji was a great visionary who worked for the emancipation of women, empowering the youth, farmers, weavers and all segments of society. He firmly believed that the country could forge ahead only if the rural populace reaps the fruits of development. Following in his footsteps, our government has focussed its attention on the development of rural areas."

The chief minister said it was during the tenure of Rajiv Gandhi as prime minister the country made great technological advancements in sectors like information technology, science and technology, communication.

"Today we can see how the internet and mobile have revolutionised the world of communication, thanks to Rajivji's scientific temperament. It is here also our government has been trying to make the students computer savvy by distributing computers/laptops to them under the Anandaram Barooah Award," he said.

Gogoi said the government's focus is on poverty alleviation and unemployment problem. "The issues of poverty and unemployment are of prime importance. Our government has primarily focussed its attention on these vital issues," he said.
The Chief Minister said Rajivji believed in the power of the youth. "It was during his tenure that the voting age was reduced from 21 to 18 years. For Rajivji believed that the youth could bring about transformation of the country," he added.

Gogoi said the late leader, imbibed with the spirit of serving the country and its people, would have had so much to contribute for the country's welfare, had he not fallen to the evil machinations of terrorists.

"The most lasting tribute we can pay to the great leader is by emulating his ideals for a better tomorrow," he added.