Reported by Avik Chakraborty
Dibrugarh: Three cadres belonging to two Naga insurgent groups voluntarily surrendered before the Changlang district police in Arunachal Pradesh, marking another step in ongoing efforts to bring militants back into the mainstream.
The surrendered individuals include two members of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Reformation (NSCN-R) and one cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM). They have been identified as Jongham Saijong (43) of Old Jukhi village, Lomjan Pangtha (51) of Jongji Havi village, and Khangjung Khanglim (22) of Old Salang village.
According to police officials, the trio decided to lay down arms following sustained counselling efforts by security agencies and encouragement from their family members.
“With the support of their families and through continuous counselling, they chose to renounce violence and rejoin the mainstream of society,” a police official said.
The surrender comes amid intensified counter-insurgency operations being carried out by security forces in the Tirap, Longding and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh, areas that have long witnessed insurgent activities.
Officials said several insurgents from different groups have returned to the mainstream in recent years after appeals from security agencies. The Assam Rifles and state police have been working closely to facilitate the rehabilitation and reintegration of misguided youths involved in insurgent movements.
Security agencies noted that such voluntary surrenders are being encouraged through a combination of outreach programmes, counselling initiatives and law enforcement measures aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
Reacting to the development, Arunachal Pradesh Cabinet Minister Mama Natung welcomed the surrender and described it as a positive step towards strengthening peace in the state.
In a post on X, Natung commended the efforts of the Changlang district police, saying their counselling and rehabilitation initiatives, coupled with the support of the cadres’ families, had helped the individuals choose peace over violence.
“The return of three NSCN cadres to the mainstream in Changlang district marks a positive step towards strengthening peace and stability in our state,” he said.
The minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the peaceful reintegration of former insurgents and urged others still involved in armed movements to embrace dialogue and reconciliation.
He expressed hope that continued cooperation between security agencies, local communities and former militants would contribute to lasting peace, unity and development across Arunachal Pradesh.