Manipur's Fragile Peace: Tripartite Agreement Extended Amidst Lingering Ethnic Tensions

In a significant development aimed at fostering a fragile peace in the restive state of Manipur, the Union government, the Manipur state government, and Kuki-Zo insurgent groups have successfully extended their tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. The crucial pact, which forms the bedrock of ongoing peace efforts, has been prolonged for another six months, spanning from September 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025.

This latest extension, the 26th since the initial agreement was inked in 2008, was formally signed by representatives from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, officials from the Manipur government, and key leaders from the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United Peoples Front (UPF) – the two umbrella organisations representing Kuki-Zo insurgent groups.

The signing underscores a continued commitment, albeit amidst immense challenges, to pursue political dialogue as a pathway to stability in a region grappling with prolonged ethnic strife.

Under the terms of the SoO agreement, the signatory Kuki-Zo groups are mandated to confine themselves to designated camps, deposit their weapons, and adhere strictly to the ceasefire protocols.

In return, the government provides a monthly stipend to the cadres, a mechanism designed to facilitate their peaceful existence while political negotiations progress. This framework is vital for maintaining a semblance of order and preventing further escalation of hostilities.

However, the path to lasting peace in Manipur remains fraught with complexity.

The extension of the SoO agreement comes against the grim backdrop of over a year of devastating ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023. The conflict, primarily pitting the Meitei community against the Kuki-Zomi tribes, has claimed over 220 lives and led to the displacement of tens of thousands, shattering lives and livelihoods across the state.

This deep-seated animosity continues to cast a long shadow over any peace initiatives.

A central demand from the Kuki-Zo groups has been the creation of a separate administration, envisioning a Union Territory carved out of Manipur. This demand is vehemently opposed by Meitei organizations, who advocate for the safeguarding of Manipur's territorial integrity and have expressed concerns over what they perceive as illegal immigration and drug-related activities fueling the Kuki-Zo insurgency.

The starkly opposing viewpoints highlight the formidable challenge ahead for negotiators.

It's important to note that this SoO agreement is distinct from a similar pact signed in 2008 with Meitei insurgent groups, many of whom have since returned to mainstream society. The current agreement focuses specifically on the Kuki-Zo groups, aiming to address their unique grievances and aspirations within the broader framework of India's federal structure.

Past attempts at reconciliation have faced hurdles.

A peace committee established by the Centre last year was largely boycotted by key stakeholders, signaling the deep divisions that persist. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, while expressing openness to dialogue, has also maintained a firm stance against what he terms "illegal immigrants" and "drug cartels," issues he often links to the ongoing unrest.

These statements, while appealing to a segment of the population, often exacerbate tensions with the Kuki-Zo community.

Ultimately, the extension of the Suspension of Operations pact is a cautiously optimistic step. It provides a crucial window for political talks to continue, offering a glimmer of hope that a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the long-standing demands of the Kuki-Zo groups can be found.

The coming months will be critical in determining whether this fragile peace can evolve into a more enduring stability for the people of Manipur.