Militant's surrender brings new hope for peace in northeast

Guwahati, Feb 19 (ANI): The northeast states are frequently in news for militant activities but the recent surrenders indicate that there is a distinct improvement in the situation.

Recently the Karbi Longri North Cachar Hills Liberation Front (KLNLF) has sent a positive signal to the people of Assam that peace and normalcy could soon return to the region.

On February 12, over 400 cadres of the KLNLF including women under the leadership of Thong Teron surrendered to the authorities in a formal ceremony at Diphu.

The surrendered KLNLF cadres were welcomed with roses and traditional Assamese shawls.

Speaking to ANI, Home Ministry Joint Secretary, Naveen Verma said: "It is very good to see that both groups have come forward for peace talks and we can expect that a solution to the problems can be achieved via tripartite talks."

A package of Rs 50 crore was announced for the development of the Karbi Anglong district. he government also announced a one-time grant of Rs 2 Lakh to each surrendered cadre. he militant group expressed hope that dialogue scheduled with the Centre would help resolve outstanding issues. I take this opportunity to convey the government of India that KLNLF is sincere in bringing sustainable peace in the part of country," Thong Teron, Chief, KLNLF.

The KLNLF, which is responsible for killing, extortion and other unlawful activities, has disrupted peace and normalcy in the state.

The surrender off their cadres has made people in the region happy. The KLNLF arms lay down ceremony is very good sign for ushering a new era of peace and prosperity in the region," said a local.

In October 2009, Dima Halim Daogah (DHD-Jewel) faction popularly known as Black Widow surrendered to authorities.

Peace talks are also on the cards with the United Liberation Front of Asom and (ULFA) and National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM). By Peter Todd Alex (ANI)