A total of 15 cadres of Eastern Naga National Government (ENNG), including its president Tosha Mossang, laid down arms before the Arunachal government in a simple ‘homecoming ceremony’.
The ENNG are active specifically in three eastern districts of Arunachal Pradesh – Tirap, Changlang and Longding known as TCL region.
The cadres laid down arms in presence of chief minister Pema Khandu, deputy chief minister Chowna Mein, home minister Bamang Felix, state chief secretary, DGP and top officials of Assam Riffles and other central armed forces.
In his brief address, CM Pema Khandu welcomed the “misguided youth to the mainstream” and expressed hope that their willingness to lead a “normal” life would inspire those still “underground” to shun the life of violence and terror.
He asserted that that the central government, under prime minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah, is committed to bring all “misguided” persons, who have taken up arms against the establishment for one or other reason, back to the mainstream and provide them with a normal and better life.
“Violence is no solution to any problem. Peace, dialogue and commitment are the solution to every problem,” he said.
Khandu pointed that Arunachal Pradesh has always been a peaceful state and that his government is committed to ensure that it remains so.
“With you (ENNG) returning home to normal life, Arunachal Pradesh has made a giant leap towards peace. I hope this step of yours will set the doors open for others to come back home,” he said.
Khandu informed that the state government has the ‘Underground Surrender Policy’ in place to rehabilitate them as well as facilitate their livelihood.
“This financial year (2023-24), we have allocated Rs 5 to encourage misguided youths to shun violence and become partners of growth. We assure the surrendered cadres all help to join the mainstream for their meaningful contribution to the State and the country,” he said.
The chief minister lauded the role of Assam Rifles and the state police in pursuing with the rebels and encouraging them to surrender and start a normal life. He expressed optimism that the forces would continue with their effort to curb insurgency in the region but with a humane touch.
