Senapati: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) on Thursday served a four-day ultimatum to the Government of Manipur to ensure the safe release and handover of six Naga hostages, warning that failure to do so could lead to a boycott of the state government.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Senapati district headquarters following an emergency Presidential Council meeting attended by ANSAM unit presidents.
Addressing the media, ANSAM President Th. Angteshang Maring stated that the Nagas are peace-loving people who have continued to exercise patience despite growing concerns over the safety of the six civilians allegedly abducted by Kuki militants on May 13.
According to Maring, the decision was taken in line with the resolution adopted by the United Naga Council (UNC), which has been demanding the safe release of the hostages. He alleged that the abductors were linked to Kuki militant groups and claimed that despite the passage of 15 days, the whereabouts of the six hostages remain unknown.
“ANSAM will stand firm with the decision of the UNC. We urge the Government of Manipur to sincerely establish the status of the six Naga hostages and hand them over safely within four days,” Maring said.
He further warned that if the demands are not fulfilled within the stipulated period, ANSAM will be compelled to boycott the present state government led by Chief Minister Y. Khemchand and could also appeal to Naga legislators to withdraw their support from the government.
The student body expressed resentment over what it termed as repeated failures of the state government to ensure justice and security for the Naga people. Maring cited several past incidents, including the killing of two Naga civilians in the TM Kasom incident, attacks in Kamjong area, the ambush of three church leaders, and the killing of a Naga civilian from the Chiru tribe.
ALSO READ: Ukhrul: Alleged Attack During Funeral Service at TM Kasom
He alleged that no tangible action had been taken against those involved in the incidents and accused the government of failing in its responsibility to protect the lives and properties of the people.
“After enduring enough and witnessing repeated incidents without justice, the Naga people can no longer remain silent,” Maring stated.
ANSAM also appealed to the Naga community to continue supporting the association’s stand and any future course of action that may be announced after the ultimatum period.
“We shall move ahead together and fight for justice together,” the ANSAM President added.