TAMENGLONG/UKHRUL: As tension and public outrage continue to mount over the abduction of six Naga civilians, hundreds of women in Tamenglong district braved the Sun, joining the Naga women protest demanding the immediate and safe release of the Naga civilians who were taken hostage reportedly by the Kukis since May 13. The protest also condemned and demanded justice for (L) Wilson Thanga Chiru, who was allegedly killed by the Kuki militants on the same day.
Organised by the Joint Tribes Women Association (JTWA) under the aegis of the Naga Women Union, the protest was held at Jadonang park Tamenglong district headquarters. All shutters were down and vehicular movement was temporarily halted across the district as part of the protest.
During today’s protest, the protestors unequivocally condemned kidnapping and hostage-taking of innocent civilians and demanded the safe and immediate release of the Naga hostages, identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.
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The JTWA further alleged that Semtithang @ Thangboi Kipgen, president KNF (P) and chairman of Kukis UGs under SoO agreement, is the main culprit behind all mischief and demanded his arrest. It also demanded that Kipgen’s wife Nemcha Kipgen, who is also the Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur be relieved from her office with immediate effect.
The protestors warned that Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Kuki Student Organisation (KSO) must be held responsible should the situation between communities escalate.
The protestors further demanded concerned authorities to ensure the safe passage of civilians along the route “infested” by Kuki militants.
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The women leaders reiterated that agitation will intensify if their demand is not met by the concerned authorities at the earliest.
Rongmei Naga Council Manipur (RNCM) president KC Savio, Joint Tribes Council (JTC) general secretary Aku Newme, RNCM Tamenglong Zone president Ariang Panmei and other CSOs leaders also joined the protest.
On May 15, 2026, 14 of the 20 hostages reportedly held by Kuki groups were released. However, the fate of the remaining six hostages, including two pastors, remains unknown. The six Naga hostages included Dr. Rev. Manu Thiumai, Kenpibou Chawang, Dilip Thiumai, Kaliwangbou Abonmai, Phenrongwibou Thiumai, and Ch. Phenrilungbou.
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