The Assam government signs MoS with Kuki and Hmar Groups
A Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signing ceremony was held at Janata Bhawan in Dispur, Guwahati today between the Government of Assam and several Kuki groups, including the Kuki Liberation Organisation (KLO), the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA), the United Kuki Democratic Army (UKDA), and the Hmar Peoples' Convention (Democratic).
The groups had previously laid down their arms and signed a Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the government in 2012. With the signing of the MoS, the groups have agreed to join the democratic mainstream and work towards peace and development.
Under the agreement, the government will establish the Kuki Welfare and Development Council and the Hmar Welfare and Development Council to promote the socio-economic and cultural development of both communities.
Speaking at the event, Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu described the agreement as a historic step towards lasting peace in the state. The accord also provides for the rehabilitation of former militants and ex-gratia support for the families of those who lost their lives during the conflict.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials, including Special Director General of Police Hiren Nath, along with officials from the Home and Political Department of the state government.