United National Liberation Front (UNLF): From Inception in 1964 to Peace Agreement, Read All Details here..

United National Liberation Front (UNLF) Peace Agreement

The United National Liberation Front (UNLF), a significant Meitei insurgent group, recently made headlines as Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a historic peace agreement with the organization. This article traces the history of the UNLF, exploring its formation, evolution, and the unprecedented peace deal that has captured national attention.

Formation and Objectives of UNLF

Founded on November 24, 1964, the UNLF holds the distinction of being the oldest valley-based insurgent group in Manipur. Unlike insurgent groups operating in the Naga-dominated and Kuki-Zomi dominated hills, the UNLF emerged with a specific focus on the valley areas. Initiated under the leadership of Arembam Samarendra Singh, the group aimed at secession from India.

Interestingly, the central committee of UNLF included leaders from diverse ethnic backgrounds, symbolizing a unity of purpose transcending ethnic boundaries. Khalalung Kamei, a Naga, and Thangkhopao Singsit, a Kuki, stood among the top leaders, reflecting a coalition of aspirations.

UNLF’s Evolution: Armed Wing and International Connections

UNLF Manipur People’s Army

The armed wing of United National Liberation Front (UNLF), known as the Manipur People’s Army, came into existence in 1990. Over the years, this armed faction has executed multiple attacks targeting Indian security personnel. Notably, the UNLF is believed to have received initial training from the NSCN (IM), the largest Naga insurgent group.

Currently, the UNLF operates in the valley areas of Manipur and some villages in the Kuki-Zomi hill districts. With two factions and an estimated cadre strength of 400-500, the group has faced challenges, primarily due to its proscription under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. It has predominantly functioned from camps and training bases in Myanmar, enjoying the patronage of the Myanmar military, though recent dynamics suggest a shift in this support.

UNLF Myanmar Connection and Recent Developments

Despite facing setbacks and being pushed across the border to Myanmar, the UNLF has exhibited increased activity, especially during the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur. Collaborating with other Valley-Based Insurgent Groups (VBIGs), the two UNLF factions reportedly trained around 500 new recruits in recent months. The group’s activities have prompted concerns about its role amid the broader ethnic conflict.

UNLF Peace Accord: A Landmark Development

The recent peace agreement between the Centre and the UNLF is hailed as a historic milestone by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This marks a significant departure from the past, as valley-based insurgent groups (VBIGs) have traditionally refrained from engaging in peace talks or agreements with the central government.

However, it is essential to note that the UNLF is not the first insurgent group to contemplate an understanding with the Centre. Earlier groups like UPPK, KCP, and Maoist Communist Group, although perhaps less influential, have disbanded or faded into insignificance under unknown terms.

Internal Dynamics and Splits within UNLF Manipur

The UNLF underwent a formal split in the mid-1990s when N Oken broke away, forming the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), another proscribed group. After the assassination of Arembam Samarendra Singh in 2000, R K Meghen assumed leadership until his arrest in 2010. Khundongbam Pambei became the chairman during Meghen’s imprisonment.

In 2021, another split occurred when Pambei separated from the central committee, resulting in two factions—one led by Pambei and the other by NC Koireng. Despite internal divisions, Pambei has expressed openness to talks, with ceasefire negotiations in progress since 2020.

Other Meitei Insurgent Groups and Government Relations

UNLF Koireng Group

While the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) stands as the oldest among Meitei insurgent groups, several others have emerged over the years. Designated as one of the seven “Meitei Extremist Organisations” banned by the Union government, the UNLF faction under Koireng remains opposed to talks.

Kuki-Zomi insurgent groups

In contrast, a tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement involving the Centre, Manipur state, and Kuki-Zomi insurgent groups was established in 2008. However, in March of the current year, the Manipur government withdrew from the agreement, citing the influence of the Zomi Revolutionary Army and the Kuki National Army on forest encroachment agitation.

Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Lasting Peace

The peace agreement with the UNLF marks a pivotal moment in the history of Meitei insurgent movements. As Manipur seeks to navigate the complex terrain of ethnic conflicts, the willingness of the UNLF to engage in negotiations sets a precedent for other VBIGs. The internal dynamics and splits within the UNLF, along with the broader context of Meitei insurgent groups, shape a narrative that underscores the complexities of the region. The unfolding events will undoubtedly influence the trajectory of peace and stability in Manipur, leaving an indelible mark on the historical landscape of the United National Liberation Front.

You can also read: