Guwahati, March 25 -- Former ULFA (I) leader Dristi Rajkhowa, also known as Manoj Rabha, has announced his intention to join the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Assam.

"I will soon join the BJP, and discussions regarding the process are underway," Rajkhowa stated, citing guidance from Tankeswar Rabha, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council.

Rajkhowa, a close associate of ULFA (I) commander-in-chief Paresh Baruah, joined the militant organization in 1989.

He served as the commander of the 109 Battalion of ULFA (I) until 2011, and was later elevated to deputy commander-in-chief of the proscribed outfit in November 2020.

After nearly three decades with the insurgent group, he surrendered to the Indian ...