Consider the following statement about the peace agreement done by Government of India in December 2023:

1. It was signed between United National Liberation Front (UNLF), Government of Manipur and Government of India

2.NRFM (earlier United Revolutionary Front) was formed on September 11, 2021

3. Around 25 leaders/cadres of National Revolutionary Front Manipur (NRFM- a Meitei UG outfit) led by Major Boicha (Vice Chief of Army Staff of NRFM) along with 50 weapons have joined UNLF on 22nd December, 2023.

Which of the statement given above is/are correct?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Statement 1

Explanation:

• On 29th November 2023, a historic peace agreement was signed between the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), the Government of Manipur, and the Government of India. This marked the first time a Meitei insurgent group entered into such an agreement with the Indian government. ​
• The National Revolutionary Front Manipur (NRFM), previously known as the United Revolutionary Front, was formed on September 11, 2011. It was established by cadres from three factions of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), a Meitei underground outfit. ​
• Approximately 25 leaders/cadres of NRFM, led by Major Boicha (Vice Chief of Army Staff of NRFM), joined UNLF on 2nd December 2023, and they surrendered 25 weapons. ​

Information Booster:

United National Liberation Front (UNLF)

• Formed in 1964, it is one of the oldest Meitei insurgent groups from the valley region of Manipur.
• Distinct from Naga and Kuki-Zomi insurgent groups active in Manipur’s hill regions.
• Banned by the Government of India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
• Listed among the seven banned “Meitei Extremist Organisations”.
• Initially trained by the NSCN (IM).
• Active in valley areas of Manipur and some Kuki-Zomi hill districts.
• Operated from bases in Myanmar, including Sagaing Region, Chin, and Rakhine States, reportedly with support from Myanmar's military.

Peace Agreement – Purpose & Significance:

Historic development: First time a valley-based Meitei armed group has renounced violence and joined the mainstream.

UNLF agrees to:

• Respect the Constitution of India.
• Abide by Indian laws.

Ends decades-long hostilities with security forces that have led to significant loss of life.

Provides a platform to address longstanding community concerns.

Expected to:

• Boost peace efforts in Manipur and the North East.
• Inspire other insurgent groups in the valley to join the peace process.

 A Peace Monitoring Committee (PMC) will be set up to ensure compliance with the agreement's ground rules.

NRFM (National Revolutionary Front Manipur):

• Formed in 2011, NRFM is a Meitei underground outfit that emerged from factions of the Kangleipak Communist Party. The group's integration into UNLF signifies a move towards peace and mainstream integration.​