Kuki Inpi Hails ‘Historic’ Assam Pact, Calls For Swift Implementation of KWDC

The Kuki Inpi—the apex body of the Kuki people—has welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) between the Government of Assam and Kuki stakeholders, terming it a “historic breakthrough” that could redefine the trajectory of peace, governance, and development for Kukis in the state.

The agreement, inked on March 15 in Dispur, paves the way for the establishment of the Kuki Welfare and Development Council (KWDC) in Kuki-dominated regions, including Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao. Kuki Inpi described the development as a decisive step toward addressing long-standing political, economic, educational, and cultural aspirations of the community.

In its congratulatory message, Kuki Inpi lauded the collective efforts of Kuki Inpi Assam, the Kuki National Assembly of Assam, and the Kuki SoO groups—including the United Kukigam Defence Army (UKDA), Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA), and Kuki Liberation Organization/Kuki Liberation Army (KLO/KLA)—for their role in bringing the agreement to fruition.

The apex body emphasized that the MoS reflects the commitment of Kuki armed groups, which have remained under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact since 2012, to transition from conflict to democratic engagement and constructive nation-building.

Kuki Inpi also commended the leadership of Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for facilitating what it described as a “peaceful and pragmatic resolution” to a long-pending issue. The organization noted that the agreement has the potential to end years of uncertainty while opening pathways for rehabilitation of cadres, institutional development, and targeted welfare initiatives in Kuki-inhabited areas.

Highlighting the significance of the moment, Kuki Inpi underscored the sustained efforts of Kuki Inpi Assam and the Kuki National Assembly of Assam in articulating the community’s demands, alongside the constructive participation of SoO groups in embracing peace.

However, the body issued a firm appeal to the Government of Assam to ensure time-bound and faithful implementation of all provisions of the MoS. It stressed that operationalizing the KWDC with adequate financial backing, along with effective rehabilitation and development measures, would be critical to sustaining peace and building long-term trust.

“This is not merely an agreement on paper, but a test of intent and delivery,” the statement implied, warning that delays or half-measures could undermine the hard-earned progress.

Calling the development a “moment of hope and optimism,” Kuki Inpi urged all stakeholders to work collectively toward building an inclusive and prosperous Assam, where every community can thrive with dignity and harmony.