The 'Pawan faction' of Samyukta Janatantrik Terai Mukti Morcha (SJTMM), an armed group operating in Terai, announced to quit armed activities on Saturday and handed over its weapons to the government.

SJTMM coordinator Prahlad Giri 'Pawan' handed over eight homemade firearms to Minister for Peace and Reconstruction Satya Pahadi following a four-point agreement with the government in Birgunj. As per the agreement, the government will withdraw the cases against the leaders and cadres of the armed group.

Speaking to reporters following the agreement, Giri said his group agreed to hand over the arms after it realised that the country could not stand armed violence any longer. He also urged other outfits to give up armed activities because criminal elements are taking advantage of their movement.

Similarly, minister Pahadi said the government was ready to maintain flexibility in the talks and urged all armed groups to come to the negotiating table. nepalnews.com