UKHRUL: A memorandum from the joint civil societies of Manipur has been submitted to the Manipur Governor, demanding the release of six Naga hostages within three days. This memorandum was presented following a solidarity gathering organized by civil societies on May 22 in Kanglatongbi, Imphal West, aimed at protesting Kuki aggression towards the indigenous people of Manipur and advocating for the hostages’ release.
The memorandum was submitted by various organizations, including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), Koubru Range Liangmai Women’s Union, Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur, Liangmai Naga Council Eastern Zone, All Manipur United Clubs Organisation, Makhan-Kanglatongbi Naga Forum, Manipur Naga Youth Organisation, Thawai Mirel Manipur, Imphal Naga Business Association, and Foothills Naga Coordination Committee.
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According to the civil bodies, on May 13, terrorists forcibly kidnapped eighteen innocent civilians from Leilon Vaiphei village, and another two individuals were taken from Sapormeina on May 15. Out of the twenty hostages, fourteen have been released, while six remain in the custody of Kuki terrorists. The bodies condemned the premeditated ambush and kidnapping by Kuki terrorists, describing it as a cowardly act of aggression against the indigenous communities.
They also emphasized that the government is accountable for the heinous crimes committed on May 13, 2026. In light of these events, the civil societies have outlined the following demands:
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1. The government must rescue the six remaining hostages and ensure their safe return within three days. Should the hostages be found dead, the government will bear full responsibility for any resulting unrest in the State of Manipur.
2. The Chief of Leilon Vaiphei Village, along with those responsible for the aggression against the indigenous communities, should be held fully accountable and punished according to the law.
3. The Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with KNF (P) should be immediately revoked, and the Government of India should initiate an intensive combing operation in Leilon Velphei, Kharam Velphei, and the surrounding areas.
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4. Nemcha Kipgen, the Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur, who is also a militant’s wife, should be removed immediately on moral grounds.
5. The indigenous people of Manipur should unite and jointly confront the repeated aggression and atrocities committed by Kuki terrorists.