New Delhi, September 12 – As Manipur prepares to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13, the state stands at a historic juncture. Earlier this month, on September 4, the Government of India signed a landmark Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with two prominent Kuki-Zo groups, raising hopes of restoring lasting peace in the conflict-ridden state.
Ethnic Strife Since 2023
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, when clashes broke out between the majority Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo tribes. The immediate trigger was a Manipur High Court order recommending Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Meiteis, a demand long pursued to allow them access to hill land. The Kuki-Zo, largely Christian and already holding ST recognition, viewed the move as a direct threat to their security and identity.
Although the Supreme Court stayed the order, the state descended into widespread violence, claiming around 260 lives over two years. Security forces later created buffer zones to separate the communities, limiting clashes. In February 2025, after the resignation of the N. Biren Singh–led BJP government, Manipur came under President’s Rule, helping stabilise the situation.
The SoO Pact: Key Provisions
The agreement signed with the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front (UPF) — which together represent 23 constituent groups — carries several critical measures:
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Relocation of seven designated camps away from sensitive areas.
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Reduction in the number of camps and mandatory deposit of weapons in CRPF and BSF facilities.
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Strict physical verification of cadres by security forces.
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Most importantly, an explicit commitment to uphold the territorial integrity of Manipur, ending speculation about demands for a separate Kuki homeland.
The pact also gained momentum with the decision of the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) to keep National Highway-02 open. This crucial lifeline, linking Assam to Mizoram through Manipur, has often been crippled by blockades, worsening shortages of essential goods. Keeping it operational ensures smoother movement of people and supplies.
Challenges Ahead
While the pact has raised optimism, officials acknowledge that no armed group ever surrenders all its weapons. Security forces are expected to intensify combing operations to ensure compliance. Still, the SoO agreement signals a new chapter, with both sides committing to peaceful coexistence after years of mistrust and violence.
Political and Social Significance
Observers believe the onus now lies with Manipur’s majority Meitei community, which constitutes 55% of the population, to accommodate the aspirations of the Kuki-Zo, who make up 16%. Lessons may be drawn from the Naga community (20%), which has largely abandoned armed struggle in favour of political dialogue.
The Prime Minister’s Visit
Prime Minister Modi’s visit comes at this delicate yet hopeful moment. According to Manipur’s Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, the Prime Minister will launch and lay foundation stones for development projects worth over ₹8,500 crore.
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In Churachandpur, one of the worst-hit districts during the conflict, projects worth ₹7,300 crore will be inaugurated.
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In Imphal, projects worth another ₹1,200 crore are scheduled for launch.
The visit, officials say, is aimed not just at economic revival but also at signalling New Delhi’s commitment to peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the North East.
Looking Forward
Manipur’s trajectory could mirror that of Mizoram, which transitioned from insurgency to a stable democratic order decades ago. Analysts note that peace in this strategically vital border state is essential not only for its own people but for India’s security and connectivity in the region.
With the festive season approaching, the twin focus on peace agreements and development projects underlines the government’s effort to restore normalcy. Political analysts suggest that if all stakeholders — including local communities and parties across the spectrum — support the initiative, Manipur could finally move beyond conflict towards stability and prosperity.
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