Manipar Signs a Pact to Suspend Kuki-Zo Militants

The Union Home Ministry and Manipur government signed a revised Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with 24 Kuki-Zo insurgent groups on 4 September 2025. The deal comes after ethnic clashes between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities since May 2023 and aims to restore peace before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit on 13 September. It strengthens verification of insurgent cadres, reaffirms Manipur’s territorial integrity, and ensures reopening of key transport routes.

Background

Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups erupted in May 2023, leaving over 250 dead and displacing more than 60,000 people. While Kuki-Zo groups earlier sought autonomous councils or separate administration, their demands have now shifted towards a political settlement within India’s Constitution.

Key Provisions

The pact limits camps to six each for the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF), down from 14. Camps must be away from populated areas and highways. Cadres will need Aadhaar-linked bank accounts for stipends, and Manipur Police will issue identity cards. Foreign nationals, especially Myanmar’s Chin-Kuki people, will be identified and deported.

Verification and Monitoring

A Joint Monitoring Group, headed by Manipur’s Principal Secretary (Home), will verify cadres and maintain records. Only verified members will receive the ₹6,000 monthly stipend. The pact prohibits new recruitment and any hostile activity against civilians or security forces.

Security and Transport

The Kuki-Zo Council agreed to ensure free movement on National Highway-2 (NH-2), the vital link between Imphal Valley, Nagaland, and Assam, which had been blocked for two years. The council pledged cooperation with security forces to keep the route peaceful.

Political Framework and Impact

The agreement upholds India’s Constitution and Manipur’s territorial integrity, ruling out any separate administration. It forbids ties with other armed groups. Security forces will avoid action against compliant groups, while the pact sets the stage for broader tripartite talks towards lasting peace and stability.