Date:16/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/16/stories/2006121601361300.htm

National

Do not boycott Games, House urges ULFA

Sushanta Talukdar

"The event has brought great hopes to the people"

GUWAHATI: The Assam Assembly on Friday appealed to the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) to withdraw its call for boycott of the 33rd National Games to be held here from February 9 to 18.

In a unanimous resolution, it described the boycott call as "unfortunate" for the people of the State and sportspersons. The National Games — to be held for the first time in the State — had brought great hopes to the people, who were waiting eagerly for the biggest sports event of the country. It was a matter of pride and prestige for them that the games were being held here. They had an opportunity to receive accolades from the global community.

The resolution was moved by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Bharat Narah at Congress member Bhupen Bora's suggestion. Mr. Bora said the world-class infrastructure created by the Government for the mega sports event would greatly benefit sportspersons of a backward State.