IMPHAL, Jan 23: In a historic move initiated by the Government, cadres of different SoO signatory Kuki underground outfits will be allowed for the first time to practise the universal adult franchise in the coming State Assembly election.
The Govt has made necessary arrangements for the Kuki UG cadres of SoO signatory outfits to cast their votes in the polls, said State Chief Election Commissi-oner (CEO) PC Lawmkunga.
The State Government has issued a notification in this regard on January 21 last, he added.
Different Kuki UG outfits are into a tripartite suspension of operation agreement involving State and Central govts since 2007.
Informing that postal ballots would be issued to 197 cadres, who are valid voters, the CEO added that the arrangement has been made in order to enable the underground cadres to take in the democratic process of the country.
There are 16 designated camps of these UG outfits in Senapati, Chandel and Churachandpur districts, including one camp at 7th Manipur Rifles, Khabeisoi.
One Nodal Officer each with subordinate staff would be deputed at all the 16 camps to assist the cadres in electing their candidates, the CEO said.
He added that all the cadres of SoO signatory outfits must not move out from their respective designated camps on the election day.
~TSE