Kuki-Zo Groups, MHA Agree to Close 7 Designated Camps Near Meitei Areas

Ukhrul, June 17: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Kuki-Zo insurgent groups have reached an agreement on the relocation and closure of at least seven camps which are located near Meitei-populated areas in the foothills of Manipur, according to reports. 

The meeting between the two parties was reportedly held on Monday, June 16. The meeting discussed the ground rules and an agreement was reached on major issues, including closure of the seven out of 14 existing camps, currently operated by the Kuki-Zo groups. The MHA stressed on recovery of stolen weapons and efforts to fully restore traffic along the National Highways 2 and 37, the reports said.

Also read | Recovery of arms, enforcement of SoO agreement imperative for viable peace in Manipur: PRO Defence

NH 2 and 37, connecting the Meitei-dominated Imphal valley with Nagaland and Assam and pass through Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, are key national highways for the supply of essentials and other commodities. 

The next round of talks is likely to be held after 15 days.

It may be mentioned that the Kuki-Zo groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement resumed dialogue with the GoI on June 9. Around 2,200 cadres of the SoO groups comprising United People’s Front (UPF) and the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), coalitions representing 25 insurgent groups, live in 14 designated camps in the hill districts of Manipur. The cadres have not received their entitled monthly stipend of Rs 6,000 since the violence erupted between the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zo communities on May 3, 2023.

Also read | Kuki-Zo Civil Bodies, MLAs Suspend Talks with Centre