Kuki-Zo Peace Deal Nears Finalization, Inspired by Nagaland Agreement
As a newly elected BJP-led government assumes office in Manipur, the Centre is reportedly in the advanced stages of finalizing a peace deal with the Kuki-Zo tribes. This development comes amid ongoing protests from these communities in the hill districts of the state.
According to government sources, the proposed agreement is modeled on the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) pact, which was recently signed with the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO). The FNTA grants a significant degree of autonomy to six districts in Nagaland, and a similar framework is being considered for Manipur's hill areas.
Assurances Pave Way for Government Formation
This peace deal was a key assurance from the Centre that influenced three Kuki MLAs, including Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, to join the newly formed government led by Meitei leader Yumnan Khemchand Singh. The move has helped stabilize the political landscape in Manipur, which has been marred by ethnic tensions.
Sources indicate that while the deal is in its final stages, its formalization might be delayed until after the Assembly elections scheduled for next year. This timeline allows the Centre to secure broader support, particularly from the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley.
Negotiations Focus on Autonomy and Powers
Negotiations are currently centered on granting enhanced autonomy, financial authority, and administrative power to the hill districts of Manipur under Article 371C of the Constitution. This article governs hill councils in the state, similar to how Article 371A applies to autonomous councils in Nagaland.
Highly placed sources reveal that discussions involve either amending Article 371C or introducing a new chapter to provide legislative, administrative, and financial powers to the hill tribes. While this falls short of the Kuki-Zo demand for a separate Union Territory, it aims to address most of their calls for self-governance.
Details of the Proposed Deal
The peace deal is expected to include provisions for self-governance within the framework of the State Assembly, with financial devolution proportional to the hill population and accounting for geographical challenges. Key aspects under negotiation include:
- Devolution of legislative powers related to local customs.
- Council jurisdiction over land and protection of jobs.
- Enhanced administrative oversight and financial autonomy.
Government sources note that there is a growing acceptance among Kuki groups that a separate administration may not be feasible, but a significantly empowering peace deal is achievable. In fact, a similar agreement was nearly finalized in 2023 but was derailed by the outbreak of violence in the state.
Historical Context and Challenges
It is important to highlight that Article 371C currently grants far fewer powers to hill councils compared to Article 371A in Nagaland. While Article 371A protects Naga customary law, social practices, land, and resources with legislative veto powers, Article 371C primarily focuses on administrative oversight without such broad authority.
Over the years, the Meitei-dominated Assembly in Manipur has weakened the implementation of Article 371C. Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the hill areas have not received the devolved powers intended since Manipur became a state in 1972. Departments such as Agriculture, Horticulture, and Social Welfare have remained recommendatory in nature, with ADCs often struggling with poor budgetary allocations and functionality.
Past attempts to amend the article or enhance autonomy have faced obstacles, including stalled legislation and ineffective changes. For instance, amendments proposed in 2000 were later revoked in 2006, and revisions in 2008 were deemed inadequate, leading to protests and withdrawals.
As negotiations continue, the Centre aims to craft a sustainable peace deal that balances the aspirations of the Kuki-Zo tribes with the constitutional framework, fostering long-term stability in Manipur.
