Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma gave financial assistance to members of terrorist organisations that had surrendered at a gathering held on Monday at the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakhetra in Guwahati.
Each member of the organisations that were turned in received Rs 150,000 as part of a rehabilitation programme.
Financial support was given to cadres who had betrayed the United Gorkha People’s Organization (UGPO), the Tiwa Liberation Army (TLA), the Kuki National Liberation Army, the Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA), and the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).
The assistance was given to 127 UGPO cadres, 74 TLA cadres, 38 KNLA cadres, 35 ULFA cadres, and 11 DNLA cadres who had surrendered.
Speaking at the occasion, CM Sarma said, “Most of the militant organizations, excluding ULFA have surrendered their arms and returned back to the mainstream. I am sure we will be able to precede the peace negotiations with the ULFA.”
“Peace can be restored only through talks, and not through violence and bloodshed. I urge Paresh Baruah to hold negotiations for peace in the state,” he further said.
Additionally, CM Sarma promised that more than 6000 surrendered members would be provided recruitment opportunities within 1.5 years.
“TLA which was formed in 2014 is still active in parts of Morigaon, Nagaon, Karbi Anglong and Kamrup districts. UGPO was active in Kokrajhar and Biswanath districts. Some militants keep arms even after surrendering as they feel the need might arise in the future. I request the members not to hide arms,” CM further said.