Manipur: 46 KCP-PWG cadres return to mainstream, surrender 28 weapons in Imphal East
A homecoming ceremony in Imphal East saw 46 KCP-PWG cadres join the mainstream and surrender 28 weapons, as Manipur’s government highlighted rehabilitation and支
A homecoming ceremony in Mantripukhri Garrison, Imphal East, marked the return of 46 KCP (Kangleipak Communist Party)-People’s War Group (KCP-PWG) cadres to mainstream society. The event was held at the Headquarters of IG Assam Rifles (South) on Tuesday.
The cadres, led by their chairman L Ranjit, laid down their arms before Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam and other senior officials from the state administration, Army, Assam Rifles, state police, and other central security agencies were also present. The government said the ceremony was the first such surrender by KCP-PWG since the conflict began in Manipur.
Weapons surrendered included rifles, pistols and explosives
Officials listed 28 weapons handed over during the ceremony. These included items such as three AK series arms, four AK-56 rifles, one INSAS Ex-Calibur, one SLR, and a 9 mm carbine. The list also mentioned pistols, double-barrel and single-barrel firearms, and an RPG.
Along with weapons, the surrendered material included ammunition and explosive components. The inventory stated that the handover included RPG shells, hand grenades, electric detonators, detonators, blasting caps, and IEDs described as weighing about 15 kg, besides communication devices. Officials also said a number of magazines were surrendered with the firearms.
Rehabilitation support under the surrender scheme
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Minister said Manipur had experienced peace before the incidents of May 3, 2023. He attributed the later situation to the growth of a gun culture and thanked citizens who voluntarily surrendered arms. He welcomed the cadres’ decision to join the mainstream and said the state government will support rehabilitation under the Revised Scheme for Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation of Militants in the North Eastern States, 2018.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam stated that the scheme provides a monthly stipend of up to Rs 6,000 for three years, along with a rehabilitation grant of Rs 4 lakh in the form of a fixed deposit. Police chief Mukesh Singh said the ceremony reflects increased confidence in the peace process, and Lt. Gen Girish Kalia of 3 Corps said progress is not possible under the shadow of conflict.
