Manipur: Protests erupt over proposed relocation of UNLA (MPA) cadres in peripheral areas

Protests were held in parts of Manipur's Imphal district on Wednesday, April 15 as residents opposed the proposed relocation of cadres belonging to the United National Liberation Front (Pambei faction) (UNLF-MPA) from camps in their villages, citing security concerns.

Demonstrations took place in Phayeng village in Imphal West and Nongsum village in Imphal East, where residents urged the group not to withdraw its presence. The protests were triggered by an order issued by the outfit’s general headquarters on April 13, directing its cadres stationed in these camps to report back by April 15.

The development follows a peace agreement signed between the Pambei-led UNLF faction, the Government of India, and the Manipur government, after which some cadres were accommodated in designated camps at Phayeng and Nongsum.

Residents participating in the protest at Phayeng stated that their village lies in a peripheral area close to regions inhabited by Kuki communities and has experienced heightened insecurity since the outbreak of ethnic violence in the state. They said the presence of UNLF-MPA cadres had contributed to a sense of safety and stability.

Protesters demanded the immediate withdrawal of the April 13 directive and opposed any attempt to dismantle or relocate the existing camp. They also resolved to submit memoranda to the authorities and called for formal recognition and upgradation of the Phayeng camp into an authorised facility.

Some demonstrators alleged that central security forces had failed to provide adequate protection during the ongoing conflict and expressed distrust over their functioning. They claimed that the withdrawal of UNLF-MPA cadres could leave the area vulnerable.

Residents oppose withdrawal of UNLF (MPA) camps in Manipur’s Imphal 

Similar concerns were raised by residents of Nongsum, who said the armed group had been providing protection against potential attacks and warned that its relocation could expose villagers to renewed violence.

Meanwhile, Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam had earlier stated that the UNLF (Pambei faction) had been asked to reduce the number of its camps in accordance with the peace agreement. He added that discussions were underway to dismantle unauthorised camps and expressed hope for a cooperative response from the group.