Delhi panel demands impartial action against all armed groups in Manipur

During a crucial discussion held in Delhi, a panel of experts stated that a comprehensive review of the security apparatus, impartial action against armed groups, and the recovery of illegal weapons are essential to restore public trust and pave the way for lasting peace in Manipur. According to an NDTV report, the panel clarified that the Manipur crisis cannot be viewed merely as a law and order or security issue, nor should it be seen solely through the lens of ethnic division. Solving this crisis requires a comprehensive political and social response to investigate the root causes of the long-standing crisis and find potential solutions.

A major concern expressed during the discussion was regarding the persistent presence of illegal weapons and armed groups in Manipur. The panel demanded that impartial action be taken against all armed organizations regardless of ethnic identity or community affiliation. Along with this, the need to take effective measures to recover looted and illegally held weapons was also emphasized.

Participants in the discussion stated that reconciliation or peace should be at the center of any solution to the crisis. Despite their distinct identities, historical experiences, and political aspirations, the communities of Manipur have no other practical option but peaceful coexistence. Connecting this issue with India's constitutional commitment to unity in diversity, the participants warned that the erosion of communal coexistence in Manipur could have repercussions even outside the state.

Disagreement was also expressed in the discussion against the proposal to reorganize territories on an ethnic basis. Panel members argued that creating separate territories would not automatically resolve the root disputes regarding identity and other matters. Citing the experience of Assam, they observed that territorial division is not always a sustainable solution for conflicts arising from overlapping territorial claims and competing political aspirations.

The panel also examined the influence of the drug economy and cross-border criminal networks on the current situation. Participants alleged that vested interests, including individuals operating from Myanmar, are using narcotics networks to influence the development of the region and increase instability. To tackle this problem, the meeting recommended the use of drones, satellite imagery, and aerial surveillance to identify and target illegal poppy cultivation. In addition, instructions were given to take intensive action against financial networks, smuggling routes, and other criminal structures supporting the narcotics trade.

During the discussion, there was also a demand to review the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups. The panel questioned whether this arrangement has succeeded in achieving its stated objectives. A demand was also made for a thorough investigation into the implementation, monitoring mechanisms, and overall effectiveness of this agreement. Notably, this tripartite SoO agreement was signed in 2008 between the Central Government, the Government of Manipur, and more than two dozen armed groups operating under two umbrella organizations. These two umbrella organizations include the Kuki National Organization (KNO) and the United Peoples Front (UPF).

According to the terms of the agreement, members were required to stay in designated camps and keep their weapons in locked storage, which was monitored periodically. A joint monitoring group was tasked with overseeing its implementation, and it was reviewed annually for the extension of the agreement. As part of the rehabilitation arrangement, members covered under the agreement were given a monthly stipend of ₹6,000. The objective of this initiative was to reduce violence in the hill districts, reduce the burden of counter-insurgency operations, and create a conducive environment for political negotiations and development.

It was emphasized in this Delhi meeting that any agreement with armed organizations must demonstrate progress towards disarmament and accountability. Participants stated that lasting peace cannot be brought to Manipur through security operations alone if it is not accompanied by a credible political process. Any negotiations conducted without accountability and impartial enforcement of the law would be insufficient to rebuild public trust.

This discussion was organized by the Meetei Alliance and the Meetei Heritage Society (MHS). The Meetei Alliance is a global umbrella body of civil society organizations of the Meetei community of Manipur, while MHS is a civil society group of the community working for development and peaceful coexistence. Journalist Subir Bhaumik, Lieutenant General Himalaya Singh (Retd), Professor Arambam Noni, and AC Kharingpam, as well as former advisor to the Chief Minister of Manipur, Rajat Sethi, were present at this panel discussion.