In a historic move, the Governments of India and Manipur have inked a momentous Peace Agreement with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), the oldest valley-based armed group in Manipur, marking a significant stride towards ushering in a new era of peace in the Northeastern region, especially Manipur. The signing took place in New Delhi today, heralding a transformative chapter in resolving long-standing conflicts in the area.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, lauded the historic milestone achieved, emphasizing its alignment with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of comprehensive development and providing a brighter future for the youth in Northeast India. In his statements, the Home Minister welcomed the UNLF’s commitment to democratic processes and extended best wishes for their journey towards peace and progress.
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Government of India has been engaged in signing agreements with various armed groups in the North East since 2014, aiming to quell militancy and foster development. While previous political resolutions have been reached with several ethnic armed groups in the North East, this marks the first instance of a valley-based Manipuri armed group agreeing to abandon violence and abide by the Constitution of India and its laws.
The accord signifies not only the cessation of hostilities between UNLF and security forces, which have led to loss of lives on both sides for over half a century, but also presents an opportunity to address enduring community concerns. The return of UNLF to mainstream engagement is anticipated to encourage other valley-based armed groups to participate in the peace process progressively. A Peace Monitoring Committee (PMC) is set to oversee the enforcement of agreed-upon ground rules.
This groundbreaking development is poised to be a substantial stride in reinstating peace and normalcy in the State of Manipur. The agreement, executed in New Delhi, involved senior officials from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Manipur, and representatives of the United National Liberation Front.