NewKerala.com

Assam Seals Peace Deal with Kuki-Hmar Groups Ahead of Elections

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the state government has formalized a peace agreement with Kuki-Hmar groups. The deal, signed ahead of the Model Code of Conduct, establishes dedicated welfare and development councils for these communities. It aims to promote socio-economic progress through targeted schemes in education, economy, and cultural preservation. This agreement is part of broader efforts that have seen thousands of militants reintegrate into mainstream society in recent years.

Key Points: Assam Govt Signs Kuki-Hmar Peace Agreement Before Polls

  • Peace deal signed before election code
  • Creation of Kuki and Hmar welfare councils
  • Focus on education and economic schemes
  • Over 9,000 militants returned to mainstream
  • Assam Assembly polls set for April 9
2 min read

Kuki-Hmar peace deal sealed: Assam CM ​

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announces a landmark peace deal with Kuki-Hmar groups, establishing welfare councils for socio-economic development.

"While some parties hand out incentives just minutes before MCC is announced, the BJP believes in bringing tangible solutions to long-term issues. - Himanta Biswa Sarma"

Guwahati, March 15

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said the state government sealed a peace agreement with Kuki-Hmar groups ahead of the announcement of the Model Code of Conduct, asserting that the move reflects the government's commitment to long-term solutions rather than short-term electoral incentives. ​

In a post on social media platform X, Sarma said that while some political parties distribute incentives minutes before the MCC comes into force, the ruling BJP focuses on addressing deep-rooted issues through lasting measures. ​

"While some parties hand out incentives just minutes before MCC is announced, the BJP believes in bringing tangible solutions to long-term issues. So before elections were declared, we formalised the peace deal with Kuki-Hmar groups, ensuring Assam's peace journey continues," Sarma wrote.

The Chief Minister described the agreement as a milestone in the state's peace process, calling it "Assam's Dawn of Peace". ​

According to Sarma, the agreement includes the creation of the Kuki Welfare and Development Council (KWDC) and the Hmar Welfare and Development Council (HWDC), which will function as institutional platforms in Guwahati to promote the socio-economic development of the communities. ​

The Chief Minister further noted that targeted schemes are being planned to boost education, economic opportunities, and the preservation of cultural heritage within the Kuki and Hmar communities. ​

Highlighting the broader security situation, Sarma said Assam has made significant strides in reducing insurgency in recent years, with more than 9,000 militants returning to the mainstream following peace initiatives undertaken by the government. ​

The Assam government has signed multiple peace agreements with insurgent outfits in the past few years as part of efforts to ensure long-term stability and development across the state. ​

The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the Assam Assembly elections, stating that polling will be held in a single phase across the state. ​

The poll panel said that the counting of votes will take place along with other states where Assembly elections are scheduled. ​

The election for the 126-member Assam assembly will be held on April 9, and the counting of votes will take place on May 4. ​

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good news! Peace deals before elections show some commitment. But let's be honest, the timing is always suspicious. Will these welfare councils actually get the funding and autonomy they need? The proof will be in the implementation.
R
Rohit P
Assam's peace journey is indeed commendable. 9000+ militants returning is a huge number. This deal, focusing on education and economy, is the right way to go. More power to the North East! 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
As someone who has visited Assam, stability is so important for tourism and investment. If this helps preserve cultural heritage while providing opportunities, it's a win-win. Hope it works out for everyone involved.
V
Vikram M
The CM makes a fair point about doing it before MCC. Whether it's for votes or not, peace is peace. The 'Dawn of Peace' is a strong phrase – hope the sunrise is bright and lasting for all communities in Assam.
K
Karthik V
With elections on April 9th, every move is under scrutiny. I want to believe this is genuine, but history makes me cautious. The real test is what happens after May 4th. Will the development councils be a priority then?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50