Guwahati, Nov 1: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed financial aid to 318 surrendered militants of six militant organizations who have returned to the mainstream of society and reposed their faith in the democratic process, at a programme at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati on Monday (Oct 31).
The programme was organized by the Home Department and Special Branch of Assam Police. 127 surrendered members of United Gorkha Peoples' Organization, 74 of Tiwa Liberation Army, 38 of Kuki National Liberation Army, 33 of Kuki Liberation Front, 35 from ULFA, 11 from Dimasa National Liberation Army were given Rs 1.5 lakh each. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sarma said Assam has had an experience of bloodshed in the last few decades. However, everybody in the state contributed to peace and development in the state.
He said that under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah peace has returned to North East and the development process has also become faster. The Chief Minister said that today it has been proved in Assam that the people of the state do not want violence, terror and hostility. He appealed to ULFA(I) supremo Paresh Baruah to come to the mainstream of society and respond to peace processes initiated by the government. He also emphasised on the need of resolving all the outstanding issues through dialogue.
The Chief Minister said the Disturbed Areas Act and Special Powers of the Armed Forces Act in force in Assam since 1980 have been withdrawn from substantial areas of the state. He also said that the Act has already been revoked in Lakhipur area of Cachar district and West Kabi Anglong Areas. The state government is also considering withdrawing the Act from the entire Karbi Anglong district.