PDF for alliance with indigenous groups

GUWAHATI, March 4: With Assembly elections around the corner, political equations are quickly changing in the State. The People's Democratic Front (PDF), a leading political party of the Bodo community, has geared up its activities. This time the PDF has favoured electoral alliance with the 'small indigenous groups' in a bid to bring all tribal people together. The heavyweight of the party has already initiated parleys with like-minded 'indigenous groups' for electoral alliance to achieve desired results in the election. It is learnt that the leadership of the party is disappointed with the ruling Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) for its alleged inaction in resolving the long-standing demands including creation of a separate State and carrying out developmental activities in the Bodo-dominated areas. Disappointed by the AGP's inaction, the PDF leadership is now looking for an alternative equation for seat - adjustment with other parties. Talking to The Assam Tribune, PDF leader, Andrias Hajuary claimed that this time all tribal groups would fight together in the election to defeat the anti-tribal forces. Expressing disappointment with the AGP, Hajuary revealed that it has completely ignored the Bodo problem despite repeated demands from the party. It may be recalled that the PDF has already held an informal discussion with the Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC-Holiram faction) for seat - sharing. The PDF leader, hinted that the final picture would emerge soon after the discussions with the other parties. He however refused to name the groups at present. Asked about the prevailing situation in the 'Bodoland' area, Hajuary expressed the hope that all Bodo political parties should fight jointly in the election for a better result.