The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) has been granted Rs 28.99 crore by the Government of India to support the development of two key camps for its cadres, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing peace process between the insurgent group and the government.

Sources reveal that the Ingourok camp will receive Rs 13.90 crore, while Rs 15.09 crore will be allocated to the Kakching Khunou camp. These camps will house 400 cadres each, providing secure living arrangements for a total of 800 individuals. The funding is part of broader efforts to accommodate more UNLF members as they engage in political dialogue with the government.

Originally, the UNLF had proposed the construction of six camps to house its standing army of 2,500 members. However, the approval for four additional camps in Phayeng, Saiton, Nongshum, and Jiribam is still pending, primarily due to security concerns in the region.

The funds are drawn from the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Fund, which is allocated to regions affected by insurgency in the Northeast. Despite the allocation, the UNLF is not considered a surrendered group, as some media outlets have mistakenly reported. The peace agreement ensures that the UNLF continues to exist and engage in dialogue, with a ceasefire arrangement in place.

The peace deal includes provisions to protect UNLF cadres, preventing their arrest unless they violate specific ground rules. A Peace Monitoring Committee, consisting of top officials from the Manipur government, central forces, the Intelligence Bureau (IB), and UNLF representatives, will regularly oversee the implementation of these rules.

These developments signify a positive shift toward lasting peace in the region. The establishment of these camps reflects not only the government’s commitment to dialogue but also the potential for a political resolution to the long-standing conflict in Manipur.