Kuki-Zo Groups to Focus on Demand for UT with Legislature in Future Talks Under Revised SoO Pact

Rapid Summary

• Suspension of operations (SoO) Agreement: Kuki-Zo insurgent groups, Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United Peoples Front (UPF), signed a renewed SoO pact on September 4, 2025, with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Manipur government.
• Demand Change: Post-ethnic violence in May 2023, the groups shifted their demand from local autonomy via Territorial Council to union territory status with Legislature for Kuki-Zo areas in Manipur.
• Controversy over PIB Statement: The insurgent groups accused the Press Data Bureau (PIB) of misrepresenting a key provision of the agreement by suggesting broader language about peace and stability that was not explicitly stated in the official document.
• Past Context: The agreement traces back to resolving conflicts stemming from Kuki-Naga clashes during the 1990s when hundreds were killed. It was briefly suspended when Manipur’s government withdrew from it in February 2024; President’s Rule ensued thereafter.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The renewed SoO agreement highlights ongoing trust-building challenges between regional insurgent groups and government entities. Miscommunication or perceived distortion by institutions like PIB risks exacerbating tensions during sensitive periods like Prime Ministerial visits and negotiation processes. While ethnic violence and inflammatory sentiments make these dialogues complex, establishing clarity in communication may be critical for achieving a “negotiated political settlement,” as stipulated under constitutional frameworks.The shift from Territorial Council demands to union territory status signals escalating aspirations within affected communities post-conflict trauma. This advancement underscores deeper socio-political schisms likely requiring sustained dialogue among all stakeholders-Manipur’s resident communities included-to ensure long-term stability transcending individual agreements.

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