KNF (S) designated camp opened
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 27 2010: The designated camp of SoO signatory, Kuki National Front, Samuel group, was inaugurated today at Lhanjang village, about 27 kms from here amidst an impressive participation from the neighbouring villages.

The group that has just shifted their alliance to KNO from UPF early this month has been settling in the camp since last year though the official inauguration was held today, sixteen months after the construction started.

Spreading over three low lying hill-tops, the designated camp christened Gilgal has four barracks, including one for the officers, dining hall, administrative block, drill ground, a Church and an arms depot besides others.

Armed cadres of KNF (S) at the opening of their camp

"We have spent over Rs 80 lakhs though the Government have only sanctioned around Rs 38 lakhs so far in constructing the camp," said Issak Kuki the groups' information and publicity in his report.

Issak also claimed that the organisation has till date paid Rs 3000 stipend entitled to each of their cadres timely and that all the members of the group strictly adhere to certain set of rules that have been laid down.

Some of the rules which he claimed was strictly conformed to include daily roll-call of all the cadres and obtaining prior permission to move in or out of the camp.

Free medical treatment, ration supplies to family members, construction of houses for about 10 cadres a year based on seniority and discipline, bearing all monetary expenses for any of their cadre who had served the organization for more than five if they tie the knot in a holy matrimony were the other facilities offered by the organization, said Issak.

Also speaking on the occasion, KNO's home secretary Antone urged the attending chiefs and commoners to preserve the land's natural resources.

"Otherwise when we get what we were fighting for, there shall be nothing to inherit," he said.

A handful of MDCs, numerous village chiefs, civil society and student leaders, artistes and representatives from other armed wings of the KNO were also in attendance.