Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Guwahati, August 02 2010:
Thirty seven underground cadres including NSCN-IM and NSCN-K men surrendered on Monday at a place called Khonsa in Arunachal Pradesh before the security forces.
According to Assam Rifles sources, the surrendered underground cadres included 23 NSCN (Khaplang) and seven each from NSCN (Isak-Muivah) and Adivasi militant group ANLA.
The Assam Rifles sources claimed that the surrendered militants also laid down 21 pistols, one M16 assault rifle, one .22 Chinese rifle, one 9mm carbine, one revolver, seven grenades and five SBBL guns.
With Monday's surrender, so far 102 Northeast based underground cadres have surrendered at Khonsa in the last two years.
Major General GS Katoch termed the the underground cadres' decision to lay down arms as 'bold and courageous.' GS Katoch is the GOC of DAH Division.
He said the surrender was an indicator that efforts of the security forces were bearing dividends.
The Army officer attributed the surrender to the goodwill generated by the security forces because of its people-friendly approach and commitment to create a secure environment.
"Today's ceremony is a landmark event and clearly depicts the changed perception of the youth and their desire to be part of the society," he said.
The Major General gave credit to the Assam Rifles and the police for the mass surrender.
He said the Assam Rifles and the police were instrumental in convincing the rebels to give up their arms.
Dwelling on the commitment of security forces to rehabilitation of the militants, Katoch said documentation for grant of monthly stipend and other benefits would commence forthwith.
The surrendered militants, the General added, would be imparted vocational training at Army's Dinjan base in Assam .