In a significant move aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region, the Manipur Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution urging the Government of India to abrogate the Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact with all Kuki-Zo underground militant groups. The resolution, passed today during the 5th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly, reflects the collective resolve of the assembly members to address the ongoing violence attributed to the violation of SoO ground rules by Kuki-Zo militants. During the session, which commenced yesterday, several MLAs voiced their concerns regarding the breach of SoO ground rules by the Kuki-Zo militants and the resultant escalation of violence. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, they engaged in a brief yet intense discussion advocating for the abrogation of the SoO pact.
Responding to the concerns raised by the MLAs, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh reiterated the state government’s commitment to addressing the issue. He highlighted the government’s efforts in informing the central government about the repeated violations of SoO ground rules by Kuki militants. Notably, around 35 ruling MLAs have collectively urged the central government to refrain from extending the SoO agreement beyond its scheduled termination date of February 29. Singh underscored the government’s vigilance in monitoring SoO camps since 2017, noting instances where militants have strayed from camp regulations. He emphasized that comprehensive reports detailing these violations have been regularly submitted to the central government. Given the escalation of violence and the use of sophisticated weapons by militants, Singh reiterated the assembly’s plea for the abrogation of SoO.
The sentiment was echoed by Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar, representing one of the worst-hit constituencies. Lokeshwar emphasized that the demand for abrogation of SoO stems from the desire to restore peace in the state. He highlighted the impunity with which Kuki militants have been attacking civilians, often beyond the terms of the pact, while lamenting the perceived inability of central forces to intervene effectively. Questioning the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Manipur crisis, Lokeshwar urged the Chief Minister to facilitate a meeting with the Prime Minister to address the pressing issue. He expressed confidence that the state could achieve peace once SoO is removed.