Guwahati: On January 22, more than 46 leaders and members of the All Adivasi National Liberation Army (AANLA) put down their weapons in the Sonitpur district of Assam, four months after agreeing to a peace agreement with the government.
At a ceremony in Dhekiajuli, the ex-militants surrendered guns to senior district police personnel, including the additional superintendent of police for crime and the deputy superintendent of police for border.
AANLA was one of eight Assamese-based tribal militant organisations that signed a peace accord with the government on September 15, 2022, in New Delhi, in the presence of people such as Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Eight pistols, six rifles, and ammunition were among the weapons deposited, according to a police officer.
“More than 46 AANLA members laid down arms. Their ‘president’ D Nayak, who had already surrendered, was also present on the occasion,” he added.
Nayak said the AANLA cadres laid down arms as they believe that the peace accord will be able to protect the rights of the tea tribes and ensure their development.
“We had been waging armed struggle for our rights. The doors for peace talks were opened with the government in January 2012. “After several years of negotiations, the agreement was finally signed last year. It ensures that the rights of our community will be protected. Hence, we have also decided to return to the mainstream,” Nayak added.