Imphal (Manipur) [India], May 23 (HBTV): A solidarity public gathering against alleged Kuki aggression towards the indigenous people of Manipur, demanding the safe release of six hostages reportedly held captive by Kuki militants, was organised by the Joint Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Manipur at the Anai International School Ground near Makhan Naga Village Gate, Kanglatombi, in Imphal West district.
The event was jointly organised by ELNCCA, LNC-EZ, Koubru Range Liangmai Women's Union (KRLWU), LNKR-EZ, and Kanglatongbi Civil Society Organisations.
Recalling the incident, speakers at the gathering alleged that on May 13, militants forcefully kidnapped 18 civilians from Leilon Veiphei, a Kuki village, and another two persons from Sapormeina on May 15, 2026.
‘Out of the 20 hostages, 14 have been released, while six hostages are still in the captivity of Kuki terrorists,’ the protesters said.
The protesters described the alleged ambush and kidnappings as a pre-planned act of aggression against the indigenous communities and held the government responsible for the ‘heinous crimes that occurred on May 13.’
Following the public gathering, a five-point joint memorandum was submitted to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla by various civil society organisations of the state.
‘The Government must rescue the six remaining hostages and ensure their safe return within three days. If the hostages are found dead, the Government shall take full responsibility for any untoward incidents that may arise in the State of Manipur,’ the joint memorandum stated.
The memorandum further demanded that the Leilon Veiphei village chief and those allegedly involved in the aggression against indigenous communities be held fully responsible and punished in accordance with the law.
The organisations also demanded that the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with KNF (P) be abrogated immediately and urged the Government of India to launch intensive combing operations in Leilon Veiphei, Kharam Veiphei, and surrounding areas.
The fourth demand stated, ‘Nemcha Kipgen, Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur (Militant's wife), should be removed immediately on moral grounds.’
The memorandum further stated that the indigenous people of Manipur would continue to stand united against repeated aggression and atrocities allegedly committed by Kuki militants.
Earlier, on May 15, a total of 28 hostages were released after both the Kuki and Naga sides freed 14 individuals each in a development facilitated by the United Naga Council (UNC), civil society organisations, and law enforcement agencies.
(ANI)