United Naga Council Organizes Rallies for Swift Peace Agreement.
On August 9, 2023, Nagas living in different parts of Manipur are preparing to hold rallies, urging for a successful resolution to peace talks between the central government and Naga groups based on the Framework Agreement.Security measures have been increased across Manipur as the United Naga Council (UNC), a prominent Naga organization, plans to organize rallies in Tamenglong, Senapati, Ukhrul, and Chandel districts at 10 am on Wednesday.
The UNC expressed concern about the delay in finalizing the peace agreement, emphasizing that it could undermine the ongoing peace talks. They're encouraging Nagas to actively participate in the rallies to support the cause.
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), representing Kuki tribes, is also supporting the Naga rallies due to the challenges faced by the Kuki population from ethnic tensions.
Amid accusations that the Manipur government is working against Naga group peace negotiations, the Naga Hoho, a civic body representing Naga tribes, advised 10 Naga MLAs in Manipur to abstain from the assembly session starting on August 21.
Leaders in the Kuki community expect most Kuki MLAs to skip the session due to continuing ethnic violence in the region. Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities arose in May over a court judgment favoring Meiteis advocating for Scheduled Tribe status.
Unfortunately, the ongoing violence has led to over 160 casualties and the displacement of thousands from their homes.