HM rules out UT demand, vows action against armed groups
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 08 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has categorically ruled out the demand for a separate Union Territory (UT) for the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, terming it as "non-negotiable" .

According to a report published by The Tribune, Amit Shah conveyed this stance to Governor AK Bhalla and top security officials during a high-level review meeting held on March 1 in New Delhi.

The report cited highly placed sources, stating that the Home Minister made it clear that the Centre would not entertain the demand for a separate administration in tribal-majority areas of the state.

Amit Shah reportedly instructed that this issue be firmly rebuffed at all levels.

During the meeting, the Home Minister also emphasised strict measures against armed members of groups that are part of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.

He directed that those carrying weapons in public must return to their designated camps, and any violation should be dealt with strictly.

The directive comes at a time when the future of the SoO agreement remains uncertain, as the annual renewal, which had continued since 2008, lapsed on February 29 without an extension.

Further, Amit Shah instructed state authorities to closely monitor movement between Manipur and Myanmar.

He ordered that individuals crossing into Manipur from Myanmar should not exceed the week-long stay permitted under the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.

The Union Home Minister also directed urgent restoration of places of worship damaged during the nearly two-year-long ethnic violence in Manipur.

The source mentioned that Amit Shah asked for immediate repairs to temples, churches, and mosques affected by the conflict.

Following his return from Delhi, Governor AK Bhalla held a follow-up meeting with chief secretary Prashant Kumar Singh, DGP Rajiv Singh, security adviser Kuldiep Singh, and paramilitary officials.

During the meeting, he reiterated Shah's directives and sought immediate implementation of the instructions issued by the Centre.

Mention may be made that during the March 1 meeting, Amit Shah had also instructed the Governor to ensure free movement along all the roads in Manipur from March 8 .

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