Hmar refugees finally decides to return to Manipur

Aizawl, Jul 24 (UNI) After almost six months stay in refugee camps in Mizoram, Hmar refugees here have decided to return to Manipur, their home state.

Earlier, Hmar refugees, despite Manipur government's relief package and security assurance, had expressed reluctance to go back to their homes doubtful that the area has been cleared of militants.

However, the Mizoram government and several Hmar leaders in the state have been successful to persuade them to go back to their respective villages.

Apart from the Mizoram government and Hmar leaders, North East India Committee on Relief and Development (NEICORD) has also extended help to the displaced Hmar families, including the parting relief package.

Meanwhile, Hmar refugee advisory board chairman L Thumluaia expressed thanks to the government, NGOs and village leaders especially in Kawpuar, Vaitin and Sakwrdai, for extending help for the safe return of refugees to Manipur.

About 800 Hmar refugees, who fled from Manipur during January 2006, following alleged atrocities by various insurgent groups in their area, had taken shelter in Mizoram.

UNI SNR KK SS1051