Stage being set for political dialogue with Kuki UGs: DS Poonia

IMPHAL, Sep 25 : The Chief Secretary of Manipur, DS Poonia, who is also the chairman of the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) today disclosed that the state government has apprised the political leaderships about the current outcome of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) with the Kuki militants, so as to create room for starting a political dialogue at the earliest.

The Chief Secretary stated this during the inaugural function of the designated camp ‘Ebenezer’ of the Kuki National Front (KNF) at Natheljang in Sadar Hills. The camp was today inaugurated officially by DS. Poonia.

Further, the chief secretary said that the result of the political dialogue will be known after tripartite talks due to be held on September 29 this year at New Delhi. DS. Poonia further maintained that the political leaderships were satisfied with the current outcome of the pact signed between the Kuki militants, adding he hoped that the dialogue would soon come into effect within the next few months.

At the same time the Chief Secretary contended that the proposed tripartite talks in New Delhi would also discuss infrastructural development to improve the designated camps located at different parts of the state, and also the cadres.

In the meantime, the Chief Secretary also handed over a package for building a community hall at the Ebeneger camp which will be constructed by the Manipur Development Society.

The General Secretary of the KNF, Aaron Kipgen, while delivering his welcome address said that the fact that cadres were able to settle at one place and open a peace camp after over 23 years of struggle, was considered a positive political step of the outfit and the Kuki people.

The inauguration function was attended by various Kuki civil bodies like the KNP, Kuki Chief Association and prominent Kuki leaders like Dr. Satkai, Rose Mangsi Kipgen, and Lhingjaneng Gangte, a former member of the Manipur Women’s Commission.

Among Kuki politicians, Thangminlen Kipgen, the Chairman of HAC, Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen, and former minister Ngamthang Haokip also attended the inaugural function. Moreover, MDC members of Sadar Hills/Kangpokpi ADC including the ADC chairman Sadar Hills, Seipu also took part in the inauguration programme.

At the same time, the Chairman of the United People’s Front (UPF), Thanglenpao Guite and President of the Kuki National Organisation (KNO), P.S Haokip also attended the function.

Unveiling of the inauguration stone by the Chief Guest, cultural dance presentation by various groups including the KNF cadres, musical extravaganza, speeches from many social leaders etc. marked the inauguration ceremony of the camp.