Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: WION

Context: The United National Liberation Front (UNLF), Manipur's oldest valley-based armed group, has signed a peace agreement with the central and state governments.

Details

• On November 29, 2023, the Government of India, the Government of Manipur, and the UNLF signed a peace agreement in New Delhi. The agreement is a significant milestone in the pursuit of peace in the Northeast region of India.
• The UNLF Peace Agreement is a significant milestone in the pursuit of peace in Manipur and the broader Northeast region. It represents the commitment of the UNLF to embrace peace, the government's dedication to conflict resolution, and the establishment of mechanisms to ensure sustainable peace and development.

Historical Background

• The UNLF is a prominent insurgent group that emerged in 1964 as a result of the political and social grievances of the Manipuri people.
• The group has been involved in armed resistance against the Indian state, both within and across the borders. The prolonged conflict has caused human rights violations, violence and instability, affecting the lives of the people in the region.
• The UNLF claims to represent the aspirations of the Manipuri people for self-determination and sovereignty.

Government's Approach

• The North East region of India has witnessed several conflicts and insurgencies over the years, which have hampered its development and security. The Indian government has been committed to resolving these issues through dialogue and development.
• The government has adopted a holistic approach that involves engaging with various armed groups, addressing their grievances and aspirations, and providing them with opportunities to join the national mainstream.
• The government has also launched several schemes and projects to boost the region's infrastructure, connectivity, education, health, tourism, and culture, thereby creating a conducive environment for peace and prosperity.

Key Points of the Peace Agreement

Renunciation of Violence

• The UNLF has agreed to abandon violence and join the mainstream.
• This signifies a major shift from their militant past and marks a commitment to peaceful resolution.
• The UNLF will honour the Constitution of India and the laws of the land, embracing democratic processes.

Conflict Resolution and Development

• The agreement aims to end hostilities that have claimed lives on both sides for over 50 years.
• It provides an opportunity to address the longstanding concerns of the Manipuri community.
• This opens doors for development, socio-political progress, and addressing grievances.

Government's Role

• Senior officials from the Union Home Ministry and the Government of Manipur actively participated in reaching this agreement.
• This demonstrates the government's commitment to facilitating peace processes and conflict resolution in the region.
• Their involvement ensures coordinated efforts and support for the peace initiative.

Peace Monitoring Committee (PMC)

• A PMC will be established to oversee the implementation of the agreement and enforce agreed-upon ground rules.
• This ensures accountability and compliance from all parties involved.
• The PMC will aim to maintain peace and order, fostering trust and transparency.

Impact and Future Prospects

• Restoration of Peace: The agreement is expected to contribute significantly to restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur, reducing hostilities between armed groups and security forces.
• Encouraging Participation: The UNLF's return to the mainstream may encourage other valley-based armed groups to consider participating in peace processes, potentially leading to broader conflict resolution initiatives in the future.
• Development Opportunities: With reduced conflicts, there's a possibility of enhanced development initiatives, economic growth, and improved living conditions for the people in Manipur. 

Conclusion

• This Peace Agreement represents a watershed moment in the North East's history, symbolizing a commitment to diplomatic resolutions, conflict transformation, and inclusive development. It embodies the government's efforts to address grievances, foster peace, and integrate armed groups into the democratic fabric, ultimately paving the way for a more prosperous and harmonious future for Manipur and the region as a whole.

Must Read Articles:

Violence in Manipur: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/violence-in-manipur

Hill Areas Committee of Manipur: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/hill-areas-committee-of-manipur

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. How can the government address and mitigate the complex internal security challenges in Northeast India, considering factors such as insurgency, ethnic tensions, and border disputes, to ensure long-term stability and development in the region?