The Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur (IPFM) has urged Manipur Governor A K Bhalla to clarify the current status of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement with armed Kuki militant groups, alleging that some groups under the arrangement are involved in poppy cultivation in various hill areas of the state. Addressing media persons at the Manipur Press Club, IPFM Chief Advisor Ashang Kasar said the SoO pact was originally signed to help maintain peace in Manipur. However, he alleged that instead of contributing to stability, certain militants operating under the SoO are “terrorising people” and engaging in poppy plantation by clearing forest land at different locations in the hill districts. He claimed that such activities have severely affected the lives and livelihoods of indigenous communities.
Kasar stated that the SoO agreement is scheduled to expire in February 2025 and alleged that the public remains unaware of the current locations of SoO camps and how they are functioning. Calling it a matter of public concern, he demanded that the present status of the SoO be made public without delay. He further informed that a memorandum has been submitted to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Governor A K Bhalla seeking clarification on the issue. Kasar also alleged that SoO camps are being set up in sensitive and vulnerable areas, which, he said, should not be permitted under any circumstances
