Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Jul 21: In a significant development for Manipur's security landscape, 46 active members of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (People's War Group) surrendered before Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh on Tuesday, marking one of the largest such mass surrenders in recent years.
The surrender ceremony was held at the Mantripukhri Garrison of the Assam Rifles (South) in Imphal East district and was attended by senior civil and security officials.
Among those present were Lt Gen Girish Kalia, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps, the Director General of Manipur Police, the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), the General Officer Commanding of the Red Shield Division, and the Deputy Inspector General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
During the ceremony, the surrendered cadres laid down 28 sophisticated firearms, along with ammunition and explosive materials, and pledged to abandon violence and reintegrate into mainstream society.
Security officials described the development as particularly significant because none of the surrendered militants had previously been covered under any peace agreement, making the move an important step towards reducing insurgent activity in the state.
Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Kalia welcomed the former insurgents back into mainstream life, saying the decision represented a fresh beginning for them and their families.
According to security agencies, the simultaneous surrender of such a large number of active cadres is expected to substantially weaken the operational strength and influence of the Kangleipak Communist Party (People's War Group).
Officials said the breakthrough was the result of sustained outreach efforts jointly undertaken by the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, the Indian Army and other security agencies, with support from the state government.
They added that a patient, people-centric approach helped persuade the militants to give up armed struggle and embrace a peaceful future.
The state government has assured full support for the rehabilitation and reintegration of the surrendered cadres, while security agencies have appealed to other insurgents to renounce violence and join the peace process to accelerate Manipur's development and long-term stability.