The Government is considering relocating UNLF camps alongside Kuki-Zo camps, signaling a possible shift in valley-hill security dynamics.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi, June 17, 2025 : Fresh developments from the latest two-hour dialogue between Kuki-Zo representatives and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reveal that the extension of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement is not being tied to any preconditions by the Centre.
Sources familiar with the talks said MHA interlocutors demonstrated an informed understanding of the evolving ground realities, engaging with what one Kuki-Zo leader described as a “clear intent” to reach a long-term resolution to the ethnic conflict. The Kuki-Zo delegation called the rift between their community and the Meiteis an “unbridgeable chasm.”
Even skeptics within the delegation acknowledged that the current round of talks, led by A.K. Mishra—Advisor to the MHA on Northeast Affairs—was “encouraging” and more responsive than in past years. The approach signals a recalibration of New Delhi’s stance since the original 2008 SoO agreement was signed between the Centre, the Manipur government, and Kuki-Zo armed groups.
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Camp Relocations and UNLF Parity
A key proposal on the table was the consolidation and relocation of existing SoO camps to improve logistical management and strengthen oversight. In response, both the UPF and KNO submitted counter-proposals, which are under review pending feedback from ground-level security agencies.
Kuki-Zo, MHA Cover More Ground in Round Two of Peace Talks https://t.co/AfVLrWQ9iH #KukiZoTalks #ManipurCrisis #PeaceDialogue #SoOAgreement #TribalRights #UnionTerritoryDemand
— Navin Upadhyay (@Navinupadhya) June 16, 2025
Crucially, talks also touched upon the possible relocation of three camps operated by the United National Liberation Front (UNLF)—two in Kangpokpi and one in Tengnoupal.
“If Kuki-Zo camps are being relocated, the same principle could apply to UNLF camps,” a representative from the SoO group said. “There’s no justification for maintaining UNLF camps in the hills under current conditions.”
The UNLF is the only valley-based insurgent group to have entered a ceasefire with the Government of India. As such, its presence in the hills has become a growing point of contention, particularly among tribal groups wary of future violence.
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For Kuki-Zo camps near the Imphal valley, relocations are being considered to preempt possible clashes. However, community leaders emphasized that “Kuki-Zo-inhabited areas must not be left unguarded.”
Camp Restructuring and Security Review
Aaron Kipgen, spokesperson for the United People’s Front (UPF), who led the UPF delegation in both rounds of dialogue, has gone on record denying speculation about discussions on political demands or highway access. “The agenda was strictly confined to SoO technical matters and ground rule implementation,” Kipgen clarified nto the mediapersons on Tuesday..
He added that politically sensitive issues—such as reopening highways or initiating broader negotiations—will only be addressed once the SoO agreement is formally extended.
Kipgen confirmed that four camps—two each from the UPF and KNO—are slated for closure under this restructuring plan. “This is a technical adjustment agreed upon by both sides,” he said, emphasizing that it reflects the ongoing streamlining of SoO operations.
Senior government sources reiterated that SoO extension is not being linked to contentious conditions such as blanket free movement or disarmament. “These matters will be addressed in phases—our approach is step-by-step,” one official said.
Flashpoint: Sadu Lampak Land Clash
The volatile land dispute in Sadu Lampak—a foothill village straddling Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts—was also raised during Monday’s discussions, highlighting the precarious situation on the ground.
On Sunday, a Meitei farmer from Leitanpokpi attempted to plough disputed land using a tractor, prompting Kuki villagers to object, citing tribal land rights and historical precedent. The confrontation escalated into stone-pelting and physical altercations, leaving several injured.
Police and paramilitary forces responded with tear gas and mock bombs to disperse the crowd and restore order. Social media videos of the incident triggered widespread concern, forcing the police to issue public warnings against rumor-mongering.
“This is exactly the kind of provocation that derails peace efforts,” said a senior Kuki leader. “The Meiteis have never cultivated this land—how can they suddenly lay claim to it now?”
The Kuki-Zo delegation alleged that such provocations were often timed to sabotage reconciliation. Mishra reportedly acknowledged the concern but refrained from making specific remarks, sources said.
