In a historic development, the Union and Manipur governments successfully negotiated a peace agreement with the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), the oldest Meitei extremist organization based in the Manipur valley.
Home Minister Amit Shah announced the breakthrough, emphasizing the significance of the UNLF renouncing violence and opting to join the mainstream. The peace agreement marked the first time a Manipur valley-based armed group chose to end violence and embrace democratic processes.
The UNLF, formed in 1964, has been operating both within and outside Indian territory, and it is one of the eight Meitei extremist organizations declared unlawful by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
On November 29, Shah shared a video clip and photographs of UNLF cadres, including locals, surrendering their weapons in an open field. The surrender took place in Thoubal district at Igourok, where more than 250 cadres reportedly renounced violence. Some locals are said to have joined the group during the ongoing violence, contributing to the increased strength at the time of surrender.
Shah said, “The peace agreement signed today with the UNLF by the Government of India and the Government of Manipur marks the end of a six-decade-long armed movement. It is a landmark achievement in realising the government’s vision of all-inclusive development and providing a better future to the youths in Northeast India.”
He added, “A historic milestone achieved!!! UNLF, the oldest valley-based armed group of Manipur has agreed to renounce violence and join the mainstream.”
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