NEW DELHI, Jan 21 � The possibility of Anup Chetia being handed over to India soon seems unlikely, as the general secretary�s petition seeking political asylum in Bangladesh is still pending in court.
Highly placed sources said that Chetia�s early hand over was discussed during the Home Secretary-level talks in Dhaka that concluded on Thursday.
Indian delegation was told that Chetia�s petition seeking asylum was still pending a verdict and the matter is sub-judice.
When asked about the general secretary�s fate, Union Home Secretary�s G K Pillai, who participated in the talks told this newspaper, that Bangladesh is cooperating and wanted to hand over militants sought by India. Pillai said he was satisfied with the talks with his counterpart.
About Chetia, he said India was hopeful of his early hand over, so that he can participate in the proposed negotiations.
However, sources hinted that it might take a while before all legal hurdles including Chetia�s petition is disposed of by Court. Bangladesh Government has reportedly not taken a decision about him yet.
Interestingly, both Indian and Bangladeshi officials are closely watching Chetia�s next move. If Chetia withdraws his petition seeking asylum from the court, then the entire process might be hastened.
Sources said that India acted on the basis of a letter written by ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa to the Union Home Minister, requesting that New Delhi urgently take up Chetia case with Bangladesh to enable him to participate in the ensuing peace process.
