In a significant development, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Wednesday that the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), the oldest valley-based armed group in Manipur, has signed a peace agreement with the central government. This historic accord marks a crucial step towards fostering peace and stability in the region, as UNLF has long been associated with insurgent activities.
Amit Shah took to social media platform X to share the groundbreaking news, expressing his satisfaction with UNLF's decision to renounce violence and embrace the democratic processes. In a post, he wrote, "UNLF, the oldest valley-based armed group of Manipur has agreed to renounce violence and join the mainstream. I welcome them to the democratic processes and wish them all the best in their journey on the path of peace and progress."
Accompanying the announcement was a video depicting UNLF cadres surrendering their weapons, symbolizing their commitment to the peace agreement.
UNLF Chairman Lamjingba Khundongbam confirmed the ceasefire agreement, stating in an interview with ANI, "We have signed a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India today." This move is particularly noteworthy as it signifies the first time a valley-based proscribed organization in Manipur has engaged in peace negotiations with the government since the eruption of ethnic violence in the state on May 3.
On November 13, the Union Home Ministry extended the ban on eight "Meitei extremist organizations," including the UNLF, under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), declaring them "unlawful associations." This decision came as a part of the government's efforts to curb insurgent activities in the region.
However, just a few days later, on November 26, Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh announced that the state government was on the verge of signing a historic peace agreement with the UNLF. This unexpected turn of events indicated a willingness on both sides to engage in dialogue and find common ground.
To further assess the situation, the Home Ministry, on Tuesday, announced the formation of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal. The tribunal, headed by Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi from the Gauhati High Court, will be responsible for determining whether there are sufficient grounds to enforce a ban on the Meitei militant groups of Manipur and if the existing restrictions should be sustained.
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