CM defends delay in ANVC-B rehab package

SHILLONG: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said on Friday the rehabilitation package meant for disbanded groups is under examination.
Speaking to mediapersons, Sangma said, “There are certain technicalities which need to be addressed and in the process there have been delays. These aspects have been shared with the police headquarters.”
The statement came a day after ANVC-B accused the state government of intentionally delaying the rehabilitation package for them.
Sangma further asserted that apart from the central scheme of rehabilitation for surrendered groups, the state too has initiated its own programme for rehabilitation of the disbanded groups and other individuals who have joined the mainstream.
While maintaining that there was little difference in amount between the central and the state packages, Sangma assured that the state’s handholding of the surrendered cadres would continue.
“Our package is not just about the release of funds but also involves exercise for counselling, entrepreneurship and skill training for those who have taken the bold decision to withdraw from their groups,” he said.
‘Militancy serves no purpose’
At the same time, the chief minister pointed at the “futility of fighting against your own people”.
“This senseless killing of people and subjecting them to fear does not serve any purpose. They (militants) should realise the futility of these activities,” he said and urged rebels to follow the examples of reformed cadres.
“This exercise leads us to nowhere but will land us in a situation that dislocates the momentum of growth. They should take advantage of government packages and become productive citizens of the State,” Sangma said.
A mechanism has been set up at the level of SP, DIG, Additional Director General and even Director General of Police where members of ANVC-B or any disgruntled surrendered cadre can approach the authorities and lodge their grievances, the chief minister said.
Sangma also said he recently held an interaction with the Political Department where it was decided that the support to them would continue and that the government would facilitate their access to various livelihood programmes.