1. Security agencies in Manipur are deeply troubled by the recent escalation of violence by the banned UNLF despite a ceasefire agreement.
2. The UNLF (P) under Kh Pambei signed the ceasefire agreement on November 29, 2023, pledging to abandon violent activities.
3. Concerns persist as the group’s members reportedly continue to engage in violent activities and fail to surrender weapons as agreed.
Imphal, Feb 19: Security agencies in Manipur have expressed grave concerns over the recent surge in violence instigated by the banned United National Liberation Front (UNLF), despite the group’s ceasefire agreement with the Union government last November, officials revealed on Sunday.
Led by Kh Pambei, the UNLF (P) took the historic step of entering into a ceasefire agreement on November 29, 2023, committing to renounce violence.
However, officials disclosed that the group has failed to disclose the number of its cadres and has not surrendered their weapons, as stipulated in the agreement.
Reports indicate that UNLF (P) members have been establishing camps in areas predominantly inhabited by the Kuki population to target tribal communities, raising alarm among security agencies.
Despite the ceasefire, UNLF (P) cadres have been actively engaged in violent activities against both security forces and civilians, officials noted. Notably, they were involved in looting arms and ammunition from the 5th India Reserve Battalion (IRB) at Chingarel in Manipur East on February 13.
The recent sightings of UNLF (P) cadres in various areas such as Moirangpurel, Tumukhong, and Itham have heightened concerns, with reports indicating their involvement in reconnaissance activities and violent incidents targeting civilians.
In one such incident on February 7, 2024, UNLF (P) cadres allegedly opened fire at vehicles heading towards Churachandpur, a district dominated by the Kuki community.
Similarly, reports claimed that individuals associated with UNLF (P) were involved in a shooting incident targeting the Kuki community in Maphou village.
Despite encounters with security forces, UNLF (P) cadres have been reportedly roaming freely with their automatic weapons, raising questions about the effectiveness of the ceasefire agreement.
Also Read: PM Modi Unveils BJP’s Poll Strategy: “Win Everyone’s Trust in Next 100 Days”
The recent unrest underscores the complex ethnic tensions in Manipur, particularly between the Meitei and tribal Kuki communities, resulting in significant loss of life since May last year.
While the ceasefire agreement was intended to alleviate hostilities and provide an opportunity for dialogue, the continued violence highlights the challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.
Established in 1964, UNLF has been a prominent actor in the region’s conflict landscape. Efforts to address militancy have been ongoing, including agreements with various armed groups and the Suspension of Operations (SoO) with Kuki-dominated groups since 2008.
However, the unilateral withdrawal of Manipur’s government from the SoO in March due to allegations of forest land encroachment by Kuki insurgent groups remains a contentious issue yet to be resolved.
