Northeast Desk, 1st March: Ten MLAs representing the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar community in Manipur vehemently denounced the resolution passed by the Manipur Legislative Assembly on February 29, which called for the abrogation of the Tripartite Agreement for Suspension of Operations with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF). In a joint statement, the MLAs, including Haokholet Kipgen, L.M. Khaute, Ngursanglur Sanate, Chinlunthang, Kimneo Haokip Hangshing, Letpao Haokip, Nemcha Kipgen, Paolienlal Haokip, Letzamang Haokip, and Vungzagin Valte, expressed their dissent and disapproval of the resolution, labeling it as biased and reflective of a narrow perspective.
Highlighting the significance of the Tripartite Agreement signed in 2008, the MLAs underscored its role in significantly reducing violence in Manipur, particularly in the Hill Districts. They stressed the presence of the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG), tasked with overseeing adherence to the agreement’s Ground Rules.
The MLAs raised questions about the rationale behind the Assembly’s resolution, casting doubt on whether it was based on any reports or observations from the JMG. They criticized the resolution for being driven by animosity and prejudice against their community, rather than being grounded in factual assessments of the situation.
Moreover, the representatives pointed out the recent signing of a Peace Accord with a faction of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), initiated by the State Government. They suggested that the resolution should have addressed the role played by this outfit in the ongoing violence.
Appealing to the Home Ministry, Government of India, the MLAs urged for a fair and impartial evaluation of the situation to prevent further discrimination and marginalization of the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar people.
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