In Manipur, all eyes are on the outcome of the two decades of dialogue between the Central government and Naga rebel groups. An agreement is expected to be signed before the monsoon session of Parliament, beginning on July 18, which will bring closure to the Kukis in Manipur.
Nagas have been demanding unification of their lands but there are indications that maps will not be redrawn and instead ways would be found for preserving the cultural integrity of Nagas. Manipur has a considerable number of Nagas, with as much as 90% of the territory populated by Nagas and Kukis.
There is hope that an amicable settlement will be reached with the Naga and Kuki rebels.
However, Manipur’s insurgents have made it clear that if there is any provision in the peace accord which will compromise their territory and authority, they will not remain silent.
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren told The Hindu , “The government is committed to protecting the territory of Manipur. Not a single inch of land will be ceded away.”
Army’s pact
The Army has signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact with some Kuki rebel groups. Following this, over 23 Kuki outfits decided to join the mainstream and camps were constructed to house them. There have been six rounds of talks between the Central government, the Manipur government and SoO signatories. The sixth round of talks was held on January 10. Since New Delhi was keen on restoration of peace in the northeast, the Manipur government was asked to galvanise the peace process.
Government sources said there could not be durable peace by signing an accord with one group while many others are left out.
