No response yet from Manipur UG groups on truce offer

IMPHAL, March 2: With the unilateral ceasefire coming into effect since yesterday no untoward incident was reported from any part of the State today. According to police sources, since yesterday calm and a semblance of order has prevailed with no report of any shootouts or killing. Senior police officers informed the press that no report of any violence has come in ever since the ceasefire came into effect. However, except PREPAK, which had cocked a snook at the truce offer, no official response from any other underground organisations have been forthcoming till date, informed Higher Education Minister Haobam Bhubon today. Bhubon is currently holding the charge of Chief Minister in the absence of Radhabinod Koijam who is in Delhi to attend the Chief Ministers' conference. The senior BJP leader told The Sangai Express that the state government announced the one month long unilateral ceasefire as the PF Government is intent on ushering in an era of peace and progress. He said the government is hopeful of a positive response from the rebel groups but added that so far nothing has been forthcoming. Haobam Bhubon further said the unilateral ceasefire will enable the rebels to return home and give them an opportunity to spend time with their families during Holi and Id. He added safe passage would be granted to the rebels and the government would strictly abide by the ceasefire ground rule. To a question who will be deputed as an emissary from the side of Government to talk with the underground outfits, Bhubon said the matter is still too early to be considered and added that so far the matter has not come up for discussion. He also expressed confidence that positive response would be forthcoming from the side of the rebel groups. An official report from Home Department said not withstanding the ceasefire, security personnel are still put on patrol duty to ensure public safety.