Guwahati, July 23: The Meitei Heritage Society (MHS), a prominent organization in Manipur, has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order an immediate, time-bound investigation into an alleged ₹320 crore land compensation scam involving the Kuki National Front (KNF), a militant group operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Union government.
In a formal representation submitted to the Union Home Ministry, with a copy also sent to the Governor of Manipur, MHS alleged that KNF leaders have siphoned off hundreds of crores meant for compensating civilians for land acquired by the government. The organisation cited extortion, forced signatures on blank or pre-filled forms, and intimidation of villagers as methods used to misappropriate funds, allegedly led by KNF’s finance secretary, Lunkholal Kipgen.
“This is not just a financial fraud—it is criminal exploitation of public funds by a militant group currently enjoying protection under the SoO agreement,” the memorandum stated. MHS said at least 20 affected villagers have publicly spoken out despite receiving death threats, and local officials have acknowledged complaints, leaving no doubt about the group’s involvement.
The Society expressed alarm that, despite the seriousness of the allegations, the Centre is reportedly still considering formalising the SoO agreement with these groups. MHS argued this would amount to “legitimising and funding groups involved in heinous crimes against the state and civilians,” especially as several SoO signatories are already under investigation by agencies such as the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged attacks on civilians and security personnel.
“It is incomprehensible that the government would move ahead with talks instead of taking action under the provisions of the existing agreement,” MHS stated. It also reminded the Centre that the Manipur Cabinet had earlier resolved not to engage with these militant groups due to repeated violations of the SoO terms.
The memorandum called for the immediate freezing of bank accounts linked to the scam and urged a full audit of funds associated with SoO groups to prevent misuse of public money. MHS warned that without accountability, taxpayer money could continue to be diverted to fuel separatist activities and organised extortion.
The organisation urged the Union government to act in line with public sentiment and its own stated policies, saying: “Any further delay in action will send a dangerous message—that criminality and violence can be shielded under the guise of negotiation.”
