UKHRUL: The Joint Tribes’ Council Manipur (JTC-M) has declared a total emergency shutdown with immediate effect in the Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, and Zeme regions. This decision follows the Manipur Government’s request and the subsequent United Naga Council (UNC) decision to release 14 Kuki refugees, while the fate and whereabouts of our six (6) Naga civilian brothers remain unknown. The total emergency shutdown will remain in force until all six abducted Naga civilians are returned unharmed and justice is delivered, it stated.
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Further, the council reported that the six Naga civilians were abducted on May 13, 2026, by refugees of Leilon Veiphei Kuki Village, acting in collusion with illegal Kuki militąnts. However, to date, the concerned authorities have failed to locate or secure the release of our six innocent brothers.
“Despite the ongoing abduction now entering its third week, the Manipur Government formally requested, and the UNC agreed to, the release of the 14 Kuki refugees. This decision was taken without any confirmation regarding the safety, status, or whereabouts of the six abducted Naga civilians. The JTC-Manipur views this as a gross betrayal of justice and a direct threat to the security of Naga lives,” the council said.
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The shutdown will affect all business activities along the National Highway (NH), educational institutions, government and private offices, banking services, transport, public gatherings and movements, until further notice.
Moreover, the council has also demanded the immediate location and safe, unconditional release of the six Naga civilians abducted since May 13, 2026; detention of the 14 Kuki refugees until the safe return of their six brothers, a thorough investigation into the collusion between Leilon Veiphei Kuki Village and illegal Kuki militants refugees; and accountability from the Manipur Government for prioritizing the release of refugees over the lives of Naga civilians.
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The JTC-Manipur has requested the general public to heed the directive and participate in the fullest measure. “Your complete cooperation is essential to demonstrate our collective resolve and to compel the authorities to take immediate action for the safe return of our six abducted brothers. Let no one remain indifferent. Further updates will follow as the situation evolves,” it said.