Several Manipur MLAs demand revocation of suspension of operations with Kuki militant groups, replacement of Assam Rifles

Thirty-four MLAs, including seven Naga MLAs, from the ruling coalition in Manipur have urged the Center to revoke the suspension of operations (SOO) with Kuki militant groups as well as replace the Assam Rifles with other security forces that have the capability to . To act.

The MLAs claimed that in many areas, when unarmed civilians, mostly farmers, came under attack by armed men, Assam Rifles was “not responsive” and remained “mute spectators”.

“SOO agreements with terrorist groups and the impunity they get from central forces are the main reasons for the never-ending cycle of violence. Therefore, SoO… should be immediately repealed. It should not be extended beyond the expiration date of February 29, 2024, the legislators said in a statement.

The SoO was signed with the Centre, the Manipur government and two groups of Kuki militant organizations, the Kuki National Organization and the United People’s Front. This agreement was first made in 2008 and was extended from time to time.

“These forces (Assam Rifles) and their leadership (chain of command) need to be given strict instructions and held accountable, and replaced by forces that have the capability to take repressive action when unarmed civilians are fired upon.” It said.

The MLAs have also called for complete disarmament of illegal weapons in the possession of unauthorized persons in the state at the earliest. The MLAs said that if the Central Government is unable to take any positive action on these demands, then the MLAs will take appropriate action in consultation with the public.

(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)