The Manipur Assembly has taken a unanimous stance, urging the Government of India to terminate the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with all Kuki militant groups. This resolution marks a significant shift in the state’s strategy toward addressing militancy, as it calls for the cessation of temporary military operations pauses with these groups.
Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, during the Assembly session, emphasized the importance of abrogating the SoO agreement, reflecting the collective sentiment of the House. This decision was prompted by queries from Sugnu Congress MLA K Ranjit and MLA Keisham Meghachandra, highlighting the widespread concern over this issue.
In response to the Assembly’s resolution, a torch rally was organized by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), demanding an end to the SoO agreement and the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The rally garnered participation from various segments of society, including women’s groups like Meira Paibis, who voiced their support for these demands.
Additionally, a mass protest was held simultaneously with the Assembly session, reiterating the call to terminate the SoO pact and address other pertinent issues. The coordinated efforts reflect a unified push for policy changes aimed at ensuring peace and stability in Manipur.
The protestors raised slogans such as implementing NRC and abrogating the SoO pact with Kuki militants and also demanded the removal of Assam Rifles among others.
