Native Peoples’ Convention demands end to SoO, removal of Assam Rifles; Vows united resistance against ‘External Aggression’ and Narco-Terrorism

In a significant political gathering aimed at forging unity among Manipur’s indigenous communities, a Native Peoples’ Convention held at Makhan Village today adopted a series of resolutions calling for the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, removal of the Assam Rifles from the state, updation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and a united campaign against what it termed “external aggression” and narco-terrorism.
The convention, attended by representatives of native communities, particularly Meitei and Naga groups, resolved to strengthen collective action on issues affecting the indigenous peoples of Manipur. The programme featured presentations by resource persons including K. Timothy Zimik, Dr. Y. Premanda, Head of the Department of Law at Manipur University, Dr. R.K. Narendra, demographer, and Homen Thangjam, Assistant Professor at Indira Gandhi Tribal University. The proceedings were moderated by Jurish Abonmai and Ashem Prince.
Among the key resolutions adopted unanimously was a pledge to jointly resist any form of external aggression against Manipur and to stand united against narco-terrorism, which participants described as one of the most serious threats confronting the state. The convention also resolved to formulate common policies and programmes to safeguard the interests of indigenous communities.
In a strong political message, the gathering demanded the immediate abrogation of the SoO agreement with armed groups and called for the removal of the Assam Rifles from Manipur. It further sought the updation of the NRC and proposed holding a joint consultative meeting with legislators to discuss issues concerning the future of the state and its native inhabitants.
The convention resolved that all members of the Native Peoples’ Convention, Manipur (NPCM), would collectively respond to any threat faced by its members and would refrain from supporting policies perceived as divisive or detrimental to indigenous unity, whether initiated by the state or the Union government.
Participants also decided to observe Native Peoples’ Day annually on June 2 and to organise consultative meetings at district headquarters across Manipur to broaden public engagement on issues affecting indigenous communities.
Another major resolution called for the formation of a select committee tasked with creating awareness among national leaders, people in other parts of India and international audiences regarding the challenges facing Manipur and its native populations.