According to official reports, a significant development took place in Assam as more than 1,000 members from five Adivasi extremist groups, along with three factions of other outfits, surrendered their weapons. The event, attended by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, marked a crucial step towards peace and reconciliation in the region.

During the ceremony, a total of 1,182 cadres from eight different groups laid down their arms. This included the surrender of 304 sophisticated weapons and the relinquishment of 1,460 rounds of ammunition, as stated in an official statement.

The extremist groups that participated in the disarmament process were ACMA (Adivasi Cobra Military of Assam) and its factional group, AANLA (All Adivasi National Liberation Army) and its factional group, BCF (Bircha Commando Force) and its factional group, as well as APA (Adivasi People's Army) and STF (Santhal Tiger Force).

It is worth noting that these Adivasi extremist organizations had previously surrendered to the government on January 24, 2012, and subsequently signed an agreement for the Suspension of Operation (SoO) on October 4, 2016.

Since the establishment of the agreement, multiple rounds of talks have taken place between the government and these groups. In a further effort to foster peace, the Adivasi Accord was signed between these groups, the central government, and the Assam government on September 15, 2022.

As per the terms of the Adivasi Accord, and in accordance with Clause 3 of the agreement, the Assam government established a 16-member Adivasi Welfare and Development Council on May 22, 2023. This council aims to address the welfare and development needs of the Adivasi community in the region, ensuring their overall well-being and progress.

The surrender of arms by the Adivasi extremist groups, along with the implementation of the Adivasi Accord and the establishment of the Welfare and Development Council, signify positive strides towards peacebuilding and stability in Assam. The Chief Minister, during the disarmament ceremony, also appealed to the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) for dialogue, highlighting the ongoing efforts to engage with all concerned parties and work towards sustainable peace in the region.

The Chief Minister also appealed to ULFA (I) for talks. He said, "In Assam when all the militant groups have come over ground ULFA should also come for talks in the interest of all sections of the people of the state."

In a statement, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that each surrendered cadre will receive Rs 4 lakh for rehabilitation. He said the amount will be credited to fixed deposits and can be used as collateral for a loan of up to Rs 3 lakh.

He also stated that the government will provide a monthly assistance of Rs 6,000 to each cadre for three years to support their self-employment. He urged them not to take up arms again and paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the armed struggle.

The Chief Minister congratulated the 16-member Adivasi Welfare and Development Council and emphasized its significant role in the empowerment of the tea and Adivasi community.

Image source: TOI