Feb. 17, 2025: The United National Liberation Front (UNLF), led by its Chairman Pambei, is making a significant step in the ongoing peace process with Government of India, with reportedly recent allocation of Rs 11 Crore for development/construction of its two camp. However, a closer look reveals, that the reported Rs 11 Crore allocated by Government is just a part of a much larger fund, according to our reliable source.
In reality, our source said, the central government has sanctioned Rs. 28.99 crore to support the development of the camps. Of this, Rs. 13.90 crore is designated for the Ingourok camp and Rs. 15.09 crore for the Kakching Khunou camp, both designed to house 400 cadres each, providing secure and structured accommodations for a total of 800 individuals.
Our sources also signal, that these two camps are just beginning of a broader effort to accommodate a larger number of UNLF Cadres, while the leaders engage in Political dialogue with Government of India. This indicates that UNLF has larger no. seize of its Army and our sources reveals that the UNLF earlier proposes camp was originally ‘Six Camp’ to accommodate its 2500 standing MPA (its Army). However, from the propose 6 camp, the official approval of 4 additional camp is still pending due to the region’s ongoing security situation. And said 4 additional camps, according to source, is located in in Phayeng, Saiton, Nongshum, and Jiribam.
To mention, the UNLF, the oldest insurgent group in Manipur, signed the historic peace agreement with the Government of India on November 29, 2023, which paves the way for a lasting stability in the region though dialogue.
While we dig more into the fund source details, other sources reveal that the funds are being allocated from the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Fund, a central fund for insurgency affected North East Region, and this historic peace agreement does not classify the UNLF as a surrendered group. However, without in-depth research, some half-hazard reportage carried out in some section of media has reported the group as ‘Surrendered Group’, though the group has been engaged in a structured ceasefire arrangement. And this distinction ensures that the group continues its existence and functioning while political dialogues are in progress.
Our inside source says, “The peace agreement also includes safeguards for UNLF cadres, ensuring that they cannot be arrested unless they violate certain established ground rules. A Peace Monitoring Committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary and comprising top officials from the Manipur government, central forces, the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and three UNLF representatives, meets regularly to oversee the implementation of the ground rules”.
“While challenges remain, these developments mark a positive shift towards long-term peace in Manipur. The establishment of these camps represents not just infrastructure development but also a commitment to dialogue, stability, and political solution to the long-standing conflict. With continued collaboration between the government and the UNLF, this peace process holds the promise of a brighter and more secure future for the region”, said our inside source.
