Guwahati, Sep 17 (IANS) The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has urged New Delhi to take the lead in holding direct peace talks by releasing five of its jailed leaders.

"They (the government) should take the initiative for creating a proper atmosphere for talks by releasing our jailed central committee members," ULFA said in its fortnightly mouthpiece Freedom.

The main issue now blocking the start of formal talks is the rebels' demand for release of their jailed leaders.

ULFA maintains it is not in a position to take any decision without its five central committee leaders who are currently in jail.

The government announced Aug 13 a 10-day suspension of army operations against the ULFA. This was extended by another 25 days.

The ULFA reciprocated the government's gesture by announcing cessation of hostilities for an indefinite period.