Imphal, June 20: In a significant development, peace talks between the Government of India and representatives of Kuki-Zo groups are reportedly inching closer to a potential agreement that could allow for regulated free movement of tribal people across the Indo-Myanmar border in Manipur. The proposal comes as part of broader negotiations to restore lasting peace in the ethnic violence-hit state.
Key Aspects of the Emerging Deal
According to sources involved in the discussions, the framework being considered includes:
Free Movement Regime (FMR) revival: A modified version of the earlier regime that permitted ethnic communities residing along the border to cross up to 16 km into either country without a visa.
Identity verification mechanisms: Use of biometric IDs or border passes to ensure that only recognized Kuki-Zo community members benefit from this regime.
Buffer zones and checkposts: Reinforced monitoring by Assam Rifles and other paramilitary forces to curb drug trafficking and insurgent movements.
Background: Tensions and Talks
The move follows more than a year of ethnic strife between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur, leading to over 200 deaths and displacement of thousands. The Kuki groups have demanded greater autonomy, while the government has focused on restoring order through dialogue and enforcement.
The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People's Front (UPF) have been in talks with the Union Home Ministry and Intelligence Bureau officials under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact. Peace interlocutor A K Mishra has reportedly held multiple rounds of backchannel meetings in Imphal and New Delhi.
Political and Strategic Implications
If finalized, the deal could reshape both domestic governance and international border management:
Boost to Northeast peace process: It could help integrate armed Kuki factions into democratic processes through state-level political arrangements.
Stronger Indo-Myanmar cooperation: A controlled FMR would ease local tensions while reducing insurgent flow from Myanmar’s Chin state.
Meitei resistance likely: Sections of Meitei civil society and political groups have expressed concern, fearing demographic shifts and further autonomy demands.
What’s Next?
Government officials have indicated that the free movement deal may be part of a broader peace accord, expected to be announced in phases. This could include rehabilitation, economic packages, and possible tribal council arrangements within the Indian constitutional framework.
Meanwhile, security forces continue to maintain heightened vigil across sensitive areas in Churachandpur, Moreh, and Kangpokpi.
FAQs:
Q1: What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?
A: It is a border arrangement allowing people from communities along the Indo-Myanmar border to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territory without a visa.
Q2: Who are involved in the Govt-Kuki talks?
A: Key Kuki insurgent groups under SoO like KNO and UPF, along with representatives from the Union Home Ministry and security agencies.
Q3: Will the free movement deal apply to all communities in Manipur?
A: The proposal currently focuses on Kuki-Zo communities with traditional ties across the border, not on a universal basis.
Q4: What is the Meitei community’s stand on the deal?
A: Many Meitei groups have voiced concerns, citing fears of demographic imbalance and security implications.
Published on 20 june
Publisher : SMITA
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