114 militants surrender before Manipur CM

Altogether 114 militants belonging to different banned outfits on Wednesday laid down arms and surrendered before Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh unconditionally to join the mainstream and to promote peace in the state.

The militants also handed over several arms including AK-47 rifles, different guns, carbines and pistols to Singh at a simple homecoming ceremony here attended by state Home Minister Gaikhangam, Director General of Police Y Joy Kumar and others, said an official statement issued by Assam Rifles.

Speaking on the occasion, the CM lauded the bold step taken by the militants to shun violence and to join the path of peace and prosperity which would help progress and development in the region.

Appreciating the critical role of the Assam Rifles in encouraging misguided youth to join the mainstream thereby promoting peace in the area, Singh said peace and freedom from crime and terrorism were the catalysts for bringing all round development in the region.

Some of the family members of the surrendered militants appealed to the government to help them rehabilitate properly, said the statement.