Guwahati, Aug 14 (UNI) Asom Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said suspension of Army operations against the ULFA was a bold step at a time when the outfit had stepped up its strikes.

Talking to reporters after taking part in an arms laying down ceremony of the Bengali Tiger Force here, Mr Gogoi said, ''The suspension of anti-insurgency operations against the ULFA is a positive step and indicates a bold signal of the government's sincerity to the peace process.'' The Union Home Ministry had yesterday instructed the Army IV Corps headquarters at Tezpur in the state to stop all operations against ULFA. Though no definite time frame for the suspension had been mentioned, the move was expected to give a boost to the peace process that had reached a stalemate.

The chief minister said the step indicated the sincerity of the Central and state governments towards the peace negotiations.

Mr Gogoi pointed out that it was for the first time in Asom that anti-insurgency operations had been suspended unilaterally.

''The suspension of operations proves the commitment and sincerity of the government,'' he said.

Refusing to state categorically when the jailed ULFA leaders would be set free, he said, ''The ball is in the ULFA's court now.

We expect a positive response from them.'' Mr Gogoi said the government would decide on the future course of action depending on the response of the ULFA.

UNI SG BA KR HT1507