46 KCP-PWG cadres surrender in Manipur, lays down sophisticated weapons

Guwahati: Around 46 active cadres of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (People's War Group) surrendered to the Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh, at the Mantripukhri Garrison, HQ Assam Rifles (South) in the Imphal East district.

A defence spokesperson said, “Choosing to embrace mainstream civilian life, these individuals voluntarily laid down 28 sophisticated weapons comprising AK rifles, .303 rifles, pistols, double-barrel rifles, single-barrel rifles, INSAS rifle, Self Loading Rifle, Carbine Machine Guns and Rocket Propelled Grenade launcher, alongside a large quantity of magazines, ammunition and explosives.”

The spokesperson added that this mass transition is highly significant as none of these cadres were part of prior peace agreements. It directly addresses the legacy of the KCP, founded on 14 April 1980 by communist ideologues Y. Ibohanbi and Ibopishak. Over the decades, ideological decay fractured the group into numerous entities. The People's War Group (PWG) faction emerged as a highly disruptive splinter unit, severely impacting valley districts including Imphal East, Imphal West and Kakching through anti-social and anti-national activities.


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The spokespersons elaborated, “Historically, surrenders from the KCP (PWG) have occurred in much smaller increments, such as groups of five to twelve cadres yielding to authorities in recent years. The submission of 46 active cadres simultaneously, is an unprecedented event for this specific faction. While it cannot be definitively stated that this marks the absolute dissolution of the PWG faction, it represents a severe operational degradation that significantly dismantles their regional anti-social networks and territorial reach.This successful turnaround is the culmination of weeks of determined outreach by the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police and allied agencies duly supported by the State Government functionaries. Their restrained, civilian-first approach successfully motivated these cadres to give up militancy, clearing the path for long-stalled public infrastructure development and regional prosperity.”

Addressing the Homecoming Ceremony, Chief Minister Singh said that Manipur had enjoyed a peaceful environment before the unfortunate incidents of 3rd May 2023, with people in both the hills and the valley living together peacefully.

He observed that the violence had led to the emergence of an alarming gun culture, which has unfortunately affected the State.

The Chief Minister said that sustained efforts by the Central and State security forces have resulted in the recovery of more than 8,000 weapons. He further stated that since the formation of the present Government on 4th February this year, over 1,200 firearms have been recovered, including around 600 weapons looted from the government armoury.

He appreciated all citizens who voluntarily surrendered weapons, describing them as peace-loving individuals committed to restoring normalcy. Stating that conflict and gun culture can never bring peace, he welcomed the surrendered cadres for choosing the path to the mainstream and contribute towards a peaceful future.

Khemchand also assured full support for the implementation of the Revised Scheme for Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation of Militants in the North Eastern States, 2018, including rehabilitation assistance and stipend for surrendered cadres.

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The Chief Minister lauded the dedicated and concerted efforts of the Army, Assam Rifles, BSF, CRPF, Manipur Police and other security agencies in maintaining law and order and protecting civilians. He noted that during the crisis in May 2023, more than 47,000 displaced persons belonging to both Meitei and Kuki communities were safely evacuated and provided protection in relief camps and other secure locations by the security forces.

The Chief Minister also interacted with the surrendered insurgents and thanked them for choosing the path of peace. He assured Chairman (KCP-PWG) Shri L. Ranjit all possible help.

Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam informed that as per the Revised Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation Scheme, a monthly stipend of up to Rs. 6,000 for three years and a rehabilitation grant of Rs. 4 lakhs as a Fixed Deposit will be provided to the surrendered cadres.

Konthoujam further said that nature makes Manipur more beautiful and emphasised that restoring peace should be prioritised now so that all communities could live harmoniously. He also appealed all insurgents to return to the path of peace.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh said that the Homecoming Ceremony reflects the growing confidence of misguided youths in the peace process. He expressed hope that the initiative would become a model for other insurgency-affected States and serve as an effective instrument for achieving lasting peace in Manipur.

Lt. Gen Girish Kalia, GOC 3 Corps also addressed the gathering and remarked that no society can progress under the shadow of conflict.

He expressed confidence that the surrender and rehabilitation initiatives would strengthen peace, stability and development in the Stat