Militant groups appealed not to recruit minors

Imphal, Jul 22 (UNI) The All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) has urged all militant outfits to stop recruiting children as cadres of the banned organisations.

The Civil Liberties and Human Rights Organisation (CLAHRO) also urged the proscribed outfits to release all children allegedly in their custody.

Meanwhile, chairman of the proscribed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) Sanayaima, in a statement, said the ''revolutionaries should work to strengthen ties with the people.'' ''The UNLF is striving for an autonomous, democratic, egalitarian, independent nation,'' he said.

''No one below the age of 18 years should be recruited. Even if they come to join voluntarily, they should be sent back,'' he added.

About 14 children, including three girls, between the age group of 11 to 16 years, were reported missing so far.

UNI NS DPM RD 1037