Ukhrul, March 11: Following the reported captivity of innocent civilians at Shangkai along the Ukhrul-Imphal Road by suspected ‘Kuki groups’, the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has written to the Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh seeking immediate intervention for their safe release.
Reliable sources have reported that over 20 innocent Tangkhul Naga civilians have been detained by Kuki groups at Shangkai today.
The TNL has expressed “strongest concern and outrage over the alarming incident where innocent civilians travelling on the route were reportedly intercepted and held captive by Kuki groups”.
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“This Incident is not only a grave violation of the basic human rights and freedom of movement of citizens, but also reflects a serious breakdown of law and order along a vital public road connecting Ukhrul and Imphal. The continued captivity of innocent travelers has created fear, anger, and deep resentment among the public, while their families remain in distress and uncertainty regarding their safety,” TNL said.
Taking into view the seriousness of the matter, the TNL strongly urged the government to intervene immediately to secure the safe and unconditional release of the civilians without any delay. The Government of Manipur cannot remain a silent spectator when innocent citizens are unlawfully detained on a public highway, it added.
Further, the TNL also demanded that the State Government take firm and decisive measures to ensure the safety of all commuters and hold those responsible for the unlawful act accountable under the law.
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“Failure to address such incidents decisively will only deepen the prevailing insecurity and undermine public confidence in the ability of the Government to maintain law and order,” it warned, urging the government to treat the matter with the highest priority to safeguard the lives of the civilians.
Additionally, the TNL Working Committee has set a 2-hour ultimatum to the state and the Central Government to release the innocent civilians, failing which they will be held solely responsible for all the consequences that might ensue thereafter.
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Also, accusing the central forces of remaining mute spectators when the Kuki militants carried out the ‘terrorist activity’ in their full presence and in broad daylight, the committee stated that it has completely lost faith and confidence in the central security forces.