Imphal: Two civil society organisations in Manipur have urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to clarify the status and implementation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement signed between the central and state governments and Kuki-Zo militant groups.
In a memorandum submitted to Shah through the Lok Bhavan, the Indigenous People’s Forum, Manipur (IPFM) and the Foothills Naga Co-ordination Committee (FNCC) sought details on the functioning of the SoO framework, which was first entered into in 2008 as a peace-building measure.
Two prominent Kuki-Zo groups had signed a re-negotiated SoO agreement on September 4 last year, under revised terms and conditions. These included commitments to maintain Manipur’s territorial integrity, relocate designated camps away from vulnerable areas, and work towards a lasting peace and stability in the state.
The memorandum said the pact, signed with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF), was extended in the interest of peace and stability, with modifications aimed at strengthening monitoring and compliance. The organisations sought clarity on whether these changes had been fully implemented.
“It is a matter of grave public concern that armed militants continue to be seen moving freely with sophisticated weapons in several parts of the state. It is imperative to clearly establish whether such individuals belong to recognised SoO groups,” the memorandum said.
“If they are SoO cadres, such actions constitute a serious violation of the agreement and must invite immediate and visible action. If they are not SoO cadres, then firm and prompt action under the law becomes unavoidable,” it added.
According to the memorandum, government records show that a total of 2,167 cadres belonging to various SoO groups are housed in designated camps across five districts — Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel and Pherzawl.
The organisations warned that continued ambiguity or perceived inaction in enforcing SoO conditions could erode public confidence in lawful authority. They urged the Home Ministry to undertake a comprehensive, transparent and time-bound review of the SoO framework and its enforcement.
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Manipur has been witnessing ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march in the hill districts against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Since then, around 260 people, including members of both the Kuki and Meitei communities and security personnel, have been killed, while thousands have been displaced. The state has been under President’s Rule since February last year.
