Fresh reports claiming that ULFA-Independent chief Paresh Baruah is preparing to return to Bangladesh have surfaced again in the national media. The reports have stirred speculation across Assam and other northeastern states. They also raised concerns among security circles, as Baruah has been a key figure in the armed insurgency for decades.
Several media reports suggested that Baruah, who is believed to be hiding in China near the Myanmar border, could soon move to Dhaka. Some reports even claimed that he might hold secret meetings with groups linked to Jamaat-e-Islami to strengthen militant networks in the region.
However, pro-talk ULFA leader Anup Chetia dismissed the reports. Speaking to reporters, he said the news was completely fabricated and designed to create confusion among the people. 
“Paresh Baruah is not foolish,” Chetia said. He recalled that a Bangladesh court had earlier sentenced Baruah in the 2004 Chattogram arms case, which was later commuted to life imprisonment. “Knowing this, why would he go back? The reports are false and appear to be circulated for political reasons,” he added.
Chetia further warned that rumours like these could strain ties between India and Bangladesh. He suggested that certain political groups and agencies may be trying to create mistrust between the two neighbours. He also expressed concern that such misinformation could affect ordinary people.
He said that many Bangladeshi nationals come to India for medical treatment, but visa restrictions during political unrest could put vulnerable patients at risk. “This is the real impact that people ignore when they spread misinformation,” he said.
Paresh Baruah, also known as Paresh Asom, has led ULFA since its early years. After the split in 2011, Baruah rejected peace talks and continued to operate from foreign soil. Over the years he is believed to have maintained close links with Pakistan’s intelligence network. ULFA cadres reportedly received training in Pakistan and Afghanistan during the 1990s.
Baruah fled Bangladesh after the 2004 arms smuggling case involving ten truckloads of weapons. Since then he has been seen moving between Myanmar and China, mostly near Yunnan province. Recent intelligence reports suggest Pakistan may be trying to use the current political situation in Bangladesh to rehabilitate Indian insurgent leaders in Dhaka. The reports also indicate China’s support in facilitating Baruah’s movement.
Adding another angle, Chetia criticised former ULFA (I) commander Arunoday Dohutia, accusing him of betrayal and instigating killings within the organisation. He said ULFA had become more disciplined after Dohutia left the group, and the pro-talk leadership did not support such individuals.
Security agencies in India are monitoring the developments closely. Experts believe that if Baruah establishes a base in Dhaka, it could revive insurgent operations and destabilise the region once again.
