CPI for dialogue with Maoists, ULFA

The CPI today said the government should initiate a dialogue process with the Maoists and insurgent groups like ULFA.

"I agree that there should be dialogue," CPI general secretary AB Bardhan told reporters here when asked whether the government should hold talks with the ultras.

"I have already written and issued a statement only a day earlier that there should be dialogue with ULFA. Else, how can you end insurgency?" he said.

When asked how dialogue could proceed with Maoists after the killing of its leader Azad alias Cherukuri Rajkumar, he said the process did not end with an individual.

On BJP president Nitin Gadkari's remark that Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru was the son-in-law of Congress, Bardhan said, "I do not comment on the statement of any individual whether I approve or disapprove it. I will not comment."