USCA chairman lays down arms with aides

Itanagar, Jan 25 (UNI) United Socialist Council of Arunachal (USCA) chairman Gangte Tugung along with his four associates today laid down arms before Chief Minister Gegong Apang here.

Tugung, who had escaped from the police lock-up several times earlier, surrendered a one 12-bore gun with five live rounds, one M-20 and .32 pistol with 39 live rounds, four detonators and improvised bombs.

Terming their decision as ''bold and historic'', the Chief Minister called upon them to eschew violence and help make Arunachal a peaceful state.

Mr Apang said many such youths had surrendered in the past, adding that the prolonged issues like inter-state boundary dispute and Chakma-Hajong imbroglio have instigated young minds to take the path of violence.

He also appealed the Centre to find a amicable solutions to these problems.

The Chief Minister had also announced that all possible help, including a surrender package for rehabilitating the four miscreants, would be provided. Meanwhile, they appeared before the local magistrate later and were sent to 14-day judicial remand.

UNI