Manipur groups seek time-bound review of SoO, flag enforcement lapses

Guwahati: Indigenous People's Forum, Manipur (IPFM) and Foothills Naga Co-ordination Committee (FNCC) in memorandum to Union Home Amit Shah stated to consider a comprehensive, transparent and time-bound review of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) embedded framework and its enforcement.

The memorandum also submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla stated that clear verification of cadres, strict adherence to camp and arms-related conditions, and impartial action against all violations are essential to restoring public trust and ensuring that the SoO mechanism genuinely serves its intended objective of lasting peace in Manipur.

The memorandum stated, “We, on behalf of IPFM and FNCC respectfully submit this representation seeking your kind attention to the status and implementation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, which was entered into in 2008 as a measure to restore peace and stability in the State".


“As per records available with the Government, a total of 2,167 cadres belonging to various SoO groups are accommodated in designated camps across five districts of Manipur. These include 551 cadres in Churachandpur district spread across Mongbung, N. Phaisat, Chongkhojou, Thangting and New Teikot camps; 204 cadres in Tengnoupal district at Chelep Camp; 807 cadres in Kangpokpi district housed at Shamushang, T. Gamnom, Natheljang and Thingsat camps; 178 cadres in Chandel district at Muolvaiphei Camp; and 427 cadres in Pherzawl district located at Ankhasuo, Phaibatang and Mt. Sinai camps. These camps were notified with clearly defined ground rules governing the movement of cadres, custody of arms and conduct during the period of SoO,” the memorandum.

The organizations stated, “We understand that upon the expiry of the SoO tenure in 2025, the arrangement was further extended in the interest of peace and stability, with certain modifications intended to tighten monitoring and compliance. We humbly seek clarity on whether these modifications have been fully implemented. In particular, it may kindly be clarified whether, the number of SoO camps has been reduced to seven, as reportedly decided, the arms and ammunition of SoO groups are deposited and remain under the custody of authorized central forces, including the BSF. The 2,167 registered SoO cadres continue to remain strictly within their designated camps, as per the agreed ground rules”.

The organisations added it is a matter of grave public concern that armed militants continue to be seen moving freely with sophisticated weapons in several parts of the State. It is imperative to clearly establish whether such individuals belong to recognised SoO groups. If they are SoO cadres, such actions constitute a serious violation of the SoO agreement and must invite immediate and visible action. If they are not SoO cadres, then firm and prompt action under the law becomes unavoidable. We respectfully submit that this standard must apply uniformly to all armed groups and militants in Manipur, without exception, to uphold the credibility of the rule of law.

“We fear that continued ambiguity or perceived inaction in enforcing the SoO conditions risks eroding public confidence in lawful authority. When violations are left unaddressed, ordinary citizens may feel compelled to take matters into their own hands, a situation that would be extremely dangerous and detrimental to peace and stability in the State”, the memorandum stated.