Manipur: 43 freedom-fighters set down arms in Imphal

Imphal: A day after the Union Home Minister declared Manipur a terrorist-free state, around 43 freedom-fighters from various underground groups on Saturday participated in a repatriation ceremony at the 1st Manipur Rifles Banquet Hall, Imphal. Presented their weapons and ammunition.

For the first one this year, giving a hearty welcome to 43 freedom-fighters of various revolutionist groups, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh who was the Chief Guest of the function said that cadres 13 KYKL, 5 PLA/RPF, 5 are KCP. N), 11 KCP (PWG), 5 UNLF, 1 PREPAK, 2 PREPAK (PRO), 1 NSCN (U).
The fighters dressed in camouflage uniform surrendered 19 weapons, 17 hand grenades, 5 handheld sets, one Kenwood set, 9 PEKs, 5 IEDs, and 209 rounds of ammunition, the CM said.
Speaking after the ‘Homecoming Ceremony’ organized by the Manipur Home Department, the Chief Minister urged all militant outfits to come to the negotiating table to restore peace and prosperity and life for them. Provide a new opportunity.

The CM said that the state government would make all arrangements to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of the surrendered cadres.
The gala surrender ceremony was organized a day after Union Home Minister Ami Shah declared that Manipur is free from insurgency led by the BJP government led by Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Shah concluded his two-day visit to the sensitive border state on January 6.
Notably, a total of 69 militants from various groups renounced the path of violence and joined the mainstream through repatriation ceremonies in 2022.