Zomi Council bats for status quo on SoO camps
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 06 2025: The Zomi Council has urged for cautious and sensible approach regarding the suspension of operation (SoO) agreement and security-related matters concerning designated camps in hill areas.

As per its press statement issued Sunday, the Council conveyed that it has been closely observing developments surrounding the extension of the agreement between the Government of India and SoO-affiliated hillbased groups.

According to the statement, the UPF (Zomi) is facing increasing pressure to shut down at least two of its three designated camps - K Muvanlai, Mt Sinai, and Phaiba-all situated in Zomi-majority hill areas, significantly distant from the tension-prone Imphal valley.

Following consultations within the Zomi formation, the Council emphasised the continued functioning of all three camps as essential.

It noted that the presence of SoO cadres in these locations contributes to maintaining order along the inter-state border with Mizoram and the international border with Myanmar.

The Council further warned that any reduction in camp presence could lead to the infiltration of undesirable and non-SoO armed groups, potentially disturbing public peace and allowing expansionist activities by secessionist elements from neighbouring regions.

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