Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) has strongly criticised recent statements by the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), cautioning political parties against making remarks that could further aggravate the state’s already fragile situation.
The apex Naga body has reiterated its demand for the immediate repeal of the 2008 Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and the rollback of the seven districts created in 2016.
In a statement, the UNC said Manipur continues to face a sensitive security and political environment, making it imperative for all stakeholders to avoid rhetoric that could deepen existing divisions. Responding to the Congress party’s reported defence of the SoO pact and the creation of new districts, the Council alleged that both decisions have had far-reaching consequences for peace and stability in the state.
Reiterating its long-standing position on the SoO agreement, the UNC argued that the pact has failed to provide a lasting political solution while allowing armed groups to continue operating from designated camps. The Council urged the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to revoke the agreement, contending that it has become a major obstacle to restoring normalcy.
The SoO agreement, signed in 2008, is a tripartite ceasefire arrangement involving the Government of India, the Manipur government and several Kuki insurgent groups. It was intended to suspend hostilities, confine cadres to designated camps and facilitate political dialogue.
The UNC also renewed its opposition to the creation of seven new districts in Manipur on December 8, 2016, alleging that the decision was taken without adequately addressing concerns raised by Naga organisations despite repeated representations. According to the Council, the move triggered the 139-day economic blockade that followed.
The Council further stated that it has urged the Government of India to resume the pending tripartite talks on the rollback of the seven districts and resolve the issue through dialogue and mutual understanding.