Northeast Desk, 18th December: Security agencies in Manipur remain troubled by the surge in violence perpetrated by the banned United National Liberation Front (UNLF), despite the group signing a ceasefire agreement with the Union government last November. Led by Kh Pambei, the UNLF (P) became the first Meitei armed group in the Imphal Valley to enter into such an agreement, pledging to renounce violence. However, concerns persist as the group has failed to disclose the number of its cadres or surrender their weapons as stipulated.
Reports suggest that UNLF (P) members have been establishing camps on the outskirts of areas predominantly inhabited by the Kuki population, raising fears of targeted violence against tribal communities. Ground reports indicate that UNLF (P) cadres have been engaging in violent activities against security forces and the public, including the looting of arms and ammunition from the 5th India Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Manipur East on February 13.
Following this incident, six individuals, including two UNLF cadres, were arrested, with the case likely to be transferred to the CBI for further investigation. Recent sightings of UNLF (P) cadres in various areas have heightened concerns, with reports suggesting reconnaissance activities for establishing camps.
Incidents of violence, such as the alleged opening fire by UNLF (P) cadres at Moirangpurel on vehicles heading towards Churachandpur on February 7, have further escalated tensions. Reports claim that shootings in Maphou village, predominantly inhabited by the Kuki community, were carried out by individuals associated with the Arambai Tenggol and UNLF (P) cadres.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, UNLF (P) cadres continue to move freely with their weapons, seemingly immune to arrest by security forces. Instances where armed UNLF (P) cadres were stopped but released on the pretext of the ceasefire agreement highlight the challenges in implementing peace initiatives.
The ceasefire agreement aimed to end hostilities between UNLF and security forces, providing an opportunity to address community concerns. However, ethnic clashes between the Meitei and tribal Kuki communities in Manipur have persisted, resulting in loss of lives. The UNLF’s establishment in 1964 and subsequent activities underscore the complexities of addressing militancy in the region.
Efforts such as the Suspension of Operations (SoO) with 21 Kuki-dominated groups since 2008 aim to ensure peace in Manipur’s hilly regions. However, the unilateral withdrawal from the SoO by the Manipur government in March, due to allegations of encroachment on forest land, has added to the challenges of fostering lasting peace.
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