The Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur has urged Manipur Governor A K Bhalla to clarify the present status of the Suspension of Operation with armed Kuki militant groups, alleging that groups under the SoO are involved in poppy cultivation in various hill areas of the State.
Speaking to media persons at the Manipur Press Club, Chief Advisor of the Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur, Ashang Kasar, said that the Suspension of Operation was signed to maintain peace in Manipur. However, he alleged that instead of maintaining peace, militants under the SoO are terrorising people in the region and carrying out poppy plantation at different locations in the hill areas by clearing forest land. He stated that such activities have severely affected the lives and livelihoods of indigenous people.
Ashang Kasar said that the SoO agreement is scheduled to expire in February 2025. He alleged that the public is still unaware of where the SoO camps are presently located and how they are functioning. Terming the issue as a matter of public concern, he demanded that the current status of the SoO be made known to the people without delay.
He further stated that a memorandum has been submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Manipur Governor A K Bhalla seeking clarification on the matter. He also alleged that SoO camps are being established in sensitive and vulnerable areas, which, he claimed, should not be allowed under any circumstances.