Conflict And Gun Culture Can Never Bring Peace – CM
Forty-six cadres of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party-People’s War Group (KCP-PWG) joined the mainstream by laying down arms during a Homecoming Ceremony held at Mantripukhri Garrisson, HQ IG Assam Rifles (South) here today.
Addressing the Homecoming Ceremony, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh said that Manipur had enjoyed a peaceful environment before the unfortunate incidents of 3rd May 2023, with people in both the hills and the valley living together peacefully. He observed that the violence had led to the emergence of an alarming gun culture, which has unfortunately affected the State.
The Chief Minister said that sustained efforts by the Central and State security forces have resulted in the recovery of more than 8,000 weapons. He further stated that since the formation of the present Government on 4th February this year, over 1,200 firearms have been recovered, including around 600 weapons looted from the government armoury.
He appreciated all citizens who voluntarily surrendered weapons, describing them as peace-loving individuals committed to restoring normalcy. Stating that conflict and gun culture can never bring peace, he welcomed the surrendered cadres for choosing the path to the mainstream and contribute towards a peaceful future.
CM Yumnam Khemchand also assured full support for the implementation of the Revised Scheme for Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation of Militants in the North Eastern States, 2018, including rehabilitation assistance and stipend for surrendered cadres.
The Chief Minister lauded the dedicated and concerted efforts of the Army, Assam Rifles, BSF, CRPF, Manipur Police and other security agencies in maintaining law and order and protecting civilians. He noted that during the crisis in May 2023, more than 47,000 displaced persons belonging to both Meitei and Kuki communities were safely evacuated and provided protection in relief camps and other secure locations by the security forces.
The Chief Minister also interacted with the surrendered insurgents and thanked them for choosing the path of peace. He assured Chairman (KCP-PWG) L. Ranjit all possible help.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam informed that as per the Revised Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme, a monthly stipend of up to Rs. 6,000 for three years and a rehabilitation grant of Rs. 4 lakhs as a Fixed Deposit will be provided to the surrendered cadres.
Govindas Konthoujam further said that nature makes Manipur more beautiful and emphasised that restoring peace should be prioritized now so that all communities could live harmoniously. He also appealed all insurgents to return to the path of peace.
Speaking on the occasion, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh said that the Homecoming Ceremony reflects the growing confidence of misguided youths in the peace process. He expressed hope that the initiative would become a model for other insurgency-affected States and serve as an effective instrument for achieving lasting peace in Manipur.
Lt. Gen. Girish Kalia, GOC 3 Corps also addressed the gathering and remarked that no society can progress under the shadow of conflict. He expressed confidence that the surrender and rehabilitation initiatives would strengthen peace, stability and development in the State.
The surrendered weapons include 28 (twenty eight) no. of Arms including 03 (three) no. of AK series, 04 (four) no. of AK-56 rifle, 01(one) no. of INSAS Ex-Calibur, 01(one) no. of SLR, 01(one) no. of 9 mm Carbine, 3 (three) no. of .303 rifles, 1 (one) no. of RPG, 2(two) nos. of 9 mm pistol, 1(one) no. of 7.65 mm pistol, 2(two) nos. of double barrel, 09 (nine) nos. of single barrel along with 16(sixteen) magazines, 09 RPG shells, 23 hand grenades, 40 electric detonators, 06 (six) nos. of 27 detonators, 300 blasting caps, 07 IEDS weighing approximately 15 kg, along with 07 (seven) communication devices and 342 (three hundred forty two) ammunitions.
Others who attended the Homecoming Ceremony include, Art & Culture Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, several MLAs, Chief Secretary Manipur, Security Advisor to the Government of Manipur, Senior officers of the Army, Assam Rifles, State Police, CAPFs and civil administration were also present.
