Return to Mainstream in Manipur
KRC TIMES Manipur Bureau
Imphal | Forty-six cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP)-Taibangngaba group, including four women, laid down their arms and joined the mainstream at a homecoming ceremony held at the 1st Manipur Rifles Parade Ground in Imphal on Tuesday.
The cadres surrendered 20 arms, 216 rounds of ammunition and three explosives during the ceremony, marking another step in the government’s efforts to reintegrate armed cadres into mainstream society and advance the peace process in Manipur.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended the ceremony along with senior ministers, civil and police officials, security personnel and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Khemchand said prevailing circumstances and difficult situations often push people towards taking up arms. He welcomed the decision of the KCP-Taibangngaba cadres to abandon armed activities and return to civilian life.
“Many people take up arms due to the situation. However, while responding to my call, KCP (Taibangngaba) agreed to lay down arms. I appreciate them,” the Chief Minister said.
Under the government’s rehabilitation programme, each returning cadre will receive four fixed deposits and a monthly stipend of Rs 6,000 for three years to support rehabilitation and reintegration into mainstream society.
The government urged the former cadres to make constructive use of the rehabilitation package, reconnect with their families and communities and contribute to the development of the state.
Security agencies and the state government reiterated their commitment to creating conditions conducive to lasting peace while maintaining the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
The homecoming ceremony concluded with an appeal to all stakeholders to work collectively towards peace, reconciliation and restoration of normalcy in Manipur.
The surrender comes amid continuing efforts by the government and security agencies to encourage armed groups and their cadres to abandon violence and participate in the state’s peace and rehabilitation process.
