Imphal, July 22: The Meitei Heritage Society has submitted a formal memorandum to the Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA) and the Governor of Manipur, calling for an immediate investigation into a ₹320 crore land compensation scam allegedly involving the Kuki National Front (KNF), a militant group currently under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Government of India.
The memorandum, addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, alleges that the KNF misappropriated funds earmarked for land compensation. The Society cited multiple complaints submitted to district authorities and statements from at least 20 victims who have come forward despite threats to their lives. The concerned Deputy Commissioner has also acknowledged receipt of these complaints.
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Raising concerns over reports that the Union Government may be considering renewing the SoO agreement with groups like the KNF, the Meitei Heritage Society warned that doing so would not only undermine the rule of law but also risk legitimising criminal activities committed under the protection of the agreement.
“These groups are under investigation by agencies including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for their alleged involvement in attacks on civilians and security forces,” the memorandum stated. “Proceeding with any agreement in this context would amount to complicity and a betrayal of public trust.”
The Society noted that the state government and its Cabinet have already passed a resolution against renewing the SoO agreement in light of repeated violations. It called on the Union Government to respect this position and take decisive action.
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In its memorandum, the Society demanded:
1. A time-bound and transparent investigation into the land compensation scam.
2. Immediate suspension of any talks or processes related to the renewal of the SoO agreement with involved groups.
3. Freezing of all financial accounts linked to the accused militants and the SoO framework, pending a full audit.
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