In recent developments, the government of Manipur called off its Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with two militant outfits – the Kuki National Army (KNA) and Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA). The decision, taken on March 10, 2023, was a result of allegations that the groups were stirring up unrest among forest encroachers. This move by the government has brought back into focus the longstanding issues related to insurgency in Northeast India.
The Genesis of the Kuki Insurgency
The origin of the Kuki insurgency can be traced back to the early 1990s following ethnic clashes between the Kukis and Nagas in Manipur. These violent confrontations led to the creation of armed Kuki groups as a counteraction against the perceived Naga aggression. A core dispute triggering these conflicts has been the overlapping claims made by the Kukis and Nagas regarding their respective homelands in the hills of Manipur.
Presently, about 30 Kuki militant groups operate in the state, out of which 25 have entered into SoO agreements with the state and the central government. Of them, 17 fall under the Kuki National Organisation, while the remaining 8 come under the United People’s Front. In the beginning, these groups advocated for an independent Kuki state, but their demands have since evolved to seeking a ‘Kukiland territorial council’.
Unveiling the Zomi Revolutionary Army
The Zomi Revolutionary Army is another militant outfit active in the northeastern region of India, specifically Manipur. Established in 1996, this group was reportedly formed with an objective to secure greater autonomy for the indigenous Zomi population of the region. It is believed to have originated as a faction of the larger Zomi Nationalist Movement, operational during the 1980s and 1990s.
An Overview of the Suspension of Operations Agreement
The SoO agreements that have been discussed so far were introduced in 2008. These were essentially ceasefire arrangements between the Indian government and various Kuki militant groups primarily active in Manipur and Nagaland. As per the terms of the agreement, the militant outfits were required to cease their violent activities and stay within designated camps, which would be supervised by security forces.
In return for their cooperation, the government agreed to halt its operations against these groups. The Joint Monitoring Group has been tasked with ensuring the effective implementation of these agreements.
Under the terms of the SoO agreements, neither the security forces nor the militant groups are allowed to initiate operations. The signatories, which include members of the United People’s Front and Kuki National Organisation, are obligated to respect the Constitution of India, abide by all existing laws, and respect the territorial integrity of Manipur. Furthermore, they are explicitly prohibited from engaging in any form of atrocities or extortion.
The militants remain confined to designated camps, where all armaments are secured in a safe room under a double-locking mechanism. The groups only have access to weapons for the purpose of defending their camps and safeguarding their leaders.
These recent developments in Manipur once again highlight the complex nature of the insurgencies that have plagued Northeast India for decades. It underscores the need for ongoing efforts to bring about long-term peace and stability to this region.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024