Manipur Signs Suspension Pact With Kuki-Zo Insurgents
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. This agreement follows ethnic violence between Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities that began on 3 May 2023. The pact aims to restore peace ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Manipur on 13 September 2025. It introduces stricter verification of insurgent cadres and reaffirms Manipur’s territorial integrity while opening key transport routes.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict stems from ethnic tensions between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei peoples. Violence erupted in May 2023, causing over 250 deaths and displacing more than 60,000 residents. Prior demands by Kuki-Zo groups included autonomous territorial councils or separate administration within Manipur. Post-violence, these demands shifted towards a political settlement within the Constitution of India.
Key Provisions of the Revised SoO Pact
The pact limits Kuki-Zo 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, highways, and conflict-prone zones. Insurgent cadres are required to have Aadhaar-linked bank accounts for stipend payments. Photo identity cards will be issued by Manipur Police. Foreign nationals, especially from Myanmar’s Chin-Kuki ethnic group, will be identified and deported if found.
Verification and Monitoring Mechanism
A Joint Monitoring Group (JMG), led by the Principal Secretary (Home) of Manipur, will verify cadres’ identities and maintain a detailed roster. Stipends of ₹6,000 per month will be paid only to verified members present during inspections. The pact bans recruitment of new members and any offensive actions against security forces or civilians.
Security and Movement of Goods
The Kuki-Zo Council agreed to ensure free movement on National Highway-2 (NH-2), a vital link between Imphal Valley and neighbouring states Nagaland and Assam. The highway had been effectively closed for two years, disrupting essential supplies. The council committed to cooperating with security forces to maintain peace along this route.
Political and Legal Framework
The agreement emphasises adherence to the Constitution of India and Manipur’s territorial integrity. It excludes any separate administrative status for the Kuki-Zo groups but allows for negotiated political settlements within constitutional bounds. The pact also forbids insurgent groups from associating with other armed organisations inside or outside India.
Impact on Peace and Stability
The SoO pact aims to reduce violence and restore normalcy. Security forces will refrain from operations against compliant groups. The agreement provides a framework for tripartite talks to seek a lasting political resolution. It marks a step forward in addressing ethnic conflict and humanitarian concerns in Manipur.
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