Other militant outfits will now follow suit

We have been trying to bring all insurgent groups into the mainstream for quite a long time. In May 2017, the Manipur cabinet increased the monthly stipend of surrendered militants from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000.

- SANJIB KR BARUAH

Q/ For how long have you been trying to get the United National Liberation Front to negotiate?

A/ The one-time financial grant was increased from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹4 lakh. This would be kept as fixed deposit for three years.

On February 2018, we announced that a new comprehensive surrender policy would be launched the same year. The new policy was finalised with the Union government.

In February 2022, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced during his visit to Manipur that the Centre was ready to hold talks with insurgent groups in the state. The credit for bringing the UNLF to the table goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His people-centric approach and his commitment to bringing peace to the northeast have secured the confidence of insurgent groups. What has also been instrumental is Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s meticulous effort to bring the UNLF to the negotiation table.

Q/ Are you hopeful of more valley-based outfits following suit?

A/ With the UNLF opting for the route of peace, the ensuing progress, development and stability will definitely foster trust and confidence among other valley-based outfits to follow suit.

Q/ Is it a ceasefire and suspension of operations pact or a surrender? What are the implications?

A/ The details of the peace agreement shall remain confidential as of now. However, the implications are far-reaching. This is a huge step towards maintaining stability and peace in the region.