Around 1855 militants surrender before Chidambaram in Guwahati

Guwahati, Jan 24 (ANI): Around 1855 militants belonging to nine different groups surrendered before the government at an arms laying ceremony here on Tuesday.

The militants, who bid a farewell to arms before Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram, received roses for weapons turned in.

"Today is a historic day. It is not often that one witnesses a day when so many groups which had earlier taken to the path of militancy decide to take the path of peace, reconciliation and brotherhood," said Chidambaram.

"I want to assure all of you that the governments of India and Assam will treat you as equal citizens of India with honour and dignity. The Government of India has welcomed the militants back to the fold. We believe we are a republic and a democracy where every voice deserves to be heard. Everyone is entitled to live with honour," he added.

Chidambaram further said all differences can be settled through talks, consultations, efforts and endeavour.

"Leave the past behind and look at the future positively. We will reach out to you. You must look forward to the future with hope, cheer, optimism and love for brotherhood," he said.

The militants, who surrendered before the government, were from the ethnic groups of the Adivashi Santhal outfits operating in upper Assam and three belonging to the Kukis besides a Hmar group inhabiting central Assam.

The underground groups were Adivashi Peoples Army (APA), All Adivashi National Liberation Army (AANLA), Santhal Tiger Force (STF), Birsa Commando Force (BCF), Adivashi Cobra Military of Assam (ACMA), Kuki Liberation Army (KLA)/Kuki Liberation Organisation (KLO), Hmar Peoples Convention (HPC), United Kukigam Defence Army (UKDA) and Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA).

"After laying down the arms our problem should be solved with the government through peaceful means. This is what we want. Our special demand in our Charter of Demands is the formation of the Kuki Tribes Autonomous Region. This will be created within the Karbi Anglong district," said G. H. Kuki, a surrendered militant of the United Kukigram Defence Army (Ukda).

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Army GoCs of 3 and 4 Corps, and Director General of Police (DGP) Jayant Narayan Chowdhury were also present on the occasion. (ANI)