IMPHAL: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Government of Manipur to establish the whereabouts and condition of six Liangmai Naga hostages allegedly abducted by Kuki militants and ensure their safe handover to the Naga people, failing which Nagas may collectively boycott the present state government and seek withdrawal of support from Naga legislators backing it.
The decision was taken during an Emergency Presidential Council Meeting of ANSAM held on May 24 along with its former leaders to deliberate on the prevailing situation in Manipur and the abduction of 18 persons, including Liangmai Nagas and villagers from Leilon Vaiphei, on May 13.
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In a press statement issued on Friday, ANSAM expressed deep concern over what it described as the state government’s failure to take decisive action despite repeated appeals, demonstrations and statements by Naga civil society organisations. The association stated that continued inaction has created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among communities.
According to the ANSAM, the ultimatum takes effect from May 29 and demands that the government establish the condition and location of the six Naga hostages, including two pastors, and facilitate their return within four days. ANSAM warned that failure to do so could compel Nagas to launch a collective boycott of the present government and appeal to Naga legislators to withdraw support in the interest of the security and welfare of the Naga people.
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The ANSAM also questioned the appointment of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, alleging a conflict of interest due to her marital relationship with KNF(P) chairman Semtinthang Kipgen. It further alleged that certain KNF(P) functionaries were involved in the hostage incident and criticised both the Centre and the state government for what it termed a failure to act against those responsible.
ANSAM additionally criticised Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam for allegedly denying reports of attacks on Naga villages along the Indo-Myanmar border in Kamjong district. The association claimed that armed Kuki groups and allied forces were involved in attacks on Naga settlements in the area earlier this month.
Calling for peace and normalcy, ANSAM demanded immediate action against those responsible for a series of killings and ambushes involving Naga civilians and church leaders. It also reiterated its demand for the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups and sought the removal of Nemcha Kipgen from the post of Deputy Chief Minister.
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The association appealed to all concerned authorities to act with urgency to prevent further escalation of the situation and ensure the safety and security of affected communities.