KYKL-MDF (A) clarifies, laments
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 12 2013:
While repenting inaction by the Government of Manipur to translate into action various rehabilitation schemes for surrendered cadres of insurgent groups, KYKL-MDF (Athouba) today declared invalidation of its letterheads on account of some unscrupulous elements misusing the group's letterheads in extortion and other activities not associated with the outfit.
Speaking newspersons at manipur Press Club today, KYKL-MDF (Athouba) group president Meisnam Athouba said since signing of a 'memorandum of understanding' with the Government of Manipur on February 13 this year to cease hostility all its cadres are staying put at the designated camp set-up at the Chandel post of 20 Assam Rifles.
Along with the signing of the agreement the group has ceased extortion or any other subversive acts and awaiting further response from the Government to translate into action 'packages' involved in the terms of agreement of the MoU, said the president who regretted that inspite of the assurances there is no sign of positive initiatives by the State Government to rehabilitate the former insurgent cadres.
Confiding that KYKL-MDF (Athouba) tied up with KCP (Lamphel) and URF to form 'Peace Talk Committee' to take forward the peace process, Athouba also said another joint committee of the trio was formed about a month back to tackle issues related to crime against women and other anti-social activities.
Regretting that absence of 'protective/safety' measures for the surrendered cadres from the side of the Government had been impeding the Committee from effectively carrying out its task to check crime against women, the president also decried inaction by the State authorities to start vocational training programme for the former UGs as assured during the surrender ceremony.
Urging the Government to do the needful so that the rehabilitation process begin at the earliest, he conceded that Rs 4000 stipend being extended to the surrendered UGs is incompatible to maintain a family.
Athouba also proposed that a Government representative visit the designated camp at once a month to take stock of grievances and complaints of KYKL-MDF (Athouba) cadres who decided to abjure violence and contribute towards development of Manipur.
The group's publicity secretary Elangbam Malemnganba and home secretary Khumukcham Nongpoknganba were also present during the media briefing.