UNLF Peace Accord

Source: This post on the UNLF Peace Accord has been created based on the article “UNLF Peace Accord” published in “Indian Express” on 5^th December 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Internal Security – Security challenges and their management in border areas.

News: The article discusses the recently signed peace accord between Manipuri insurgent group UNLF and Govt of India. It also highlights the various challenges in implementing peace agreements.

Recently, a tripartite peace accord has signed by the Government of India, Government of Manipur and the United National Liberation Front (UNLF). Although the terms of the agreement are awaited, at the moment it is largely on suspension of operations (SoO). A Peace Monitoring Committee has been set up to oversee its enforcement.

What has been India’s experience with peace accords?

Peace Achieved: Normalcy has been achieved in states like Mizoram and Tripura.

Removal of AFSPA: For instance, in Assam, except for the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), separatist groups have signed accords and the state removed AFSPA from 4 more districts in October.

Decline in Violence: Security personnel KIA, civilian casualties and number of violent incidents have considerably declined. Since 2014, 6,112 insurgents have surrendered.

Failure: Nagaland and Manipur are the two states where all groups have not come to the table.

North-East Insurgent Groups. Source: USI

What is the UNLF?

The UNLF was formed in 1964 and is a valley-based insurgent group — distinct from the insurgent groups in the state’s Naga-dominated and Kuki-Zomi dominated hills.

It was formed with the demand of secession from India under the leadership of Arambam Samarendra Singh. Its armed wing, the Manipur People’s Army, was formed in 1990 and over the years, it has carried out multiple attacks targeting Indian security personnel.

What is the significance of this peace agreement?

1. It will end hostility, bring peace and normalcy in the region.
2. It will address the concerns of the community.
3. First valley-based armed group to participate: This will encourage other insurgent groups.

What are the challenges in implementing peace agreements in the North-East?

1. Multiplicity of Stakeholders: This is reflected in the divergent interests of different groups. Diverse demands from various ethnic and/or tribal communities are difficult to reconcile.
   For instance, UNLF has two factions with different stance – the Pambei faction has advocated for dialogue, while the Koireng faction has refrained from engaging in talks.
2. Disruption by Extremists: The peace agreements can be halted by disruptions caused by extremist factions or splinter groups resorting to violence.
3. Historical Distrust: The lack of faith in the government’s commitment to fulfilling promises outlined in peace agreements due to historical distrust undermines their effectiveness.
4. Geopolitical Factors: External influences and geopolitical factors also play a role. Lack of cooperation and interference by external actors can destabilize the region.
   For instance, some cadres and leaders of the UNLF remain in Myanmar, where they are reported receiving support from the military junta.

What should be done in addition to the peace accord?

1 Victims of violence should be provided with enhanced compensation.

2 Rehabilitation of those displaced due to insurgency.

3 Dismantling of Zones carved out by militant groups.

4 Criminal cases must be prosecuted at the earliest.

5 Pushing for a political agreement between the various stakeholders.

Manipur is a volatile border state. Appointing a political negotiator backed by a team of administrators to meet the various stakeholders and come up with a peaceful agreement supported by all stakeholders should be the way forward.

Question for practice:

Signing peace accords with insurgent groups is only the first step among many in achieving long-term peace and stability. Explain the various roadblocks that may arise in implementing peace agreements.