Sadar Hills Chiefs Condemn Proposal to Relocate SoO Camps, Warn of Escalating Tensions

The Sadar Hills Chiefs Association (SAHILCA), representing the traditional leaders of Kangpokpi district, has strongly condemned the reported proposal to remove or relocate Suspension of Operations (SoO) Designated Camps, a move currently under discussion between SoO groups and officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

In a statement issued today, SAHILCA expressed deep concern over what it described as a dangerous and biased attempt to placate the Meitei majority, who have allegedly pressured the Government of India to blame SoO groups for the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur.

“The political dialogue between SoO groups and the MHA is an entirely separate issue and bears no connection to the ethnic unrest that has plagued Manipur,” the Association asserted. “Designated Camps are established on Kuki ancestral lands as part of a peace agreement aimed at long-term stability in the region. The narrative linking these camps to violence is baseless and malicious.”

SAHILCA warned that any move to dismantle or shift these camps—particularly within Kangpokpi district—would be seen as a direct affront to the rights and dignity of the Kuki people. “This is not merely a policy issue—it is a matter of land, identity, and justice,” the release read.

The Association also accused the government of pursuing a dangerous appeasement policy that favors majoritarian demands at the expense of minority communities. “Such actions not only erode trust but also threaten to reignite conflict in an already volatile situation,” the Chiefs warned.

Calling for wisdom and restraint, SAHILCA urged the Government of India to steer clear of partisan approaches and to uphold the spirit of the peace process. It also appealed to SoO group leaders to stand firm against any decision that compromises the interests and sentiments of the Kuki people.

“The Chiefs of Kangpokpi district stand united in opposing any attempt to tamper with our land or undermine our rights,” SAHILCA declared. “We will resist this proposal by all legitimate means to safeguard our heritage—now and forever."