Manipur Crisis – Public Demonstration Demands Safe Return of Remaining Captives

Manipur Crisis –  Civil society groups in Manipur intensified pressure on authorities after a large public gathering demanded immediate action for the release of six individuals still allegedly held captive following recent violence in the state.

A major solidarity rally was held at Anai International School Ground near Makhan Naga Village Gate in Kanglatombi, located in Imphal West district, where several civil society organisations came together to protest against recent attacks targeting indigenous communities in Manipur.

The gathering was organised collectively by multiple organisations, including ELNCCA, LNC-EZ, Koubru Range Liangmai Women’s Union, LNKR-EZ, and Kanglatongbi-based civil society groups.

Protesters Recall Recent Kidnapping Incidents

During the programme, speakers addressed the sequence of incidents that reportedly began on May 13, when armed militants allegedly abducted 18 civilians from Leilon Veiphei village. Two more people were later reported missing from Sapormeina on May 15.

According to the organisers, 14 of the abducted individuals have since been released, while six people are still unaccounted for. Protesters accused armed Kuki groups of carrying out a planned attack and described the abductions as a serious assault on indigenous residents of the region.

Participants at the event also criticised the administration for what they described as a failure to prevent the violence and ensure civilian safety during the unrest.

Memorandum Submitted to Governor

Following the public meeting, representatives of several civil society organisations submitted a joint memorandum to Ajay Kumar Bhalla outlining a series of demands related to the ongoing situation.

The memorandum urged the government to secure the release of the six remaining captives within three days and ensure their safe return. The groups further warned that authorities would be held accountable for any deterioration in the law and order situation if the hostages were harmed.

Another demand called for legal action against individuals allegedly linked to the attacks. Protesters specifically sought action against the chief of Leilon Veiphei village and others accused of involvement in violence targeting indigenous communities.

Calls for Security Operations Intensify

The organisations also demanded the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations agreement involving KNF (P). In addition, they called on the Government of India to launch extensive search and security operations in Leilon Veiphei, Kharam Veiphei, and adjoining areas.

One of the more politically sensitive demands in the memorandum sought the removal of Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen on moral grounds.

Speakers at the rally repeatedly stressed the need for unity among indigenous communities in Manipur and pledged collective resistance against future acts of violence and intimidation.

Earlier Release Facilitated Through Negotiations

The latest protest comes days after a coordinated release effort on May 15, during which 28 people were freed. Reports indicated that both Kuki and Naga groups released 14 individuals each as part of negotiations facilitated by the United Naga Council, civil society organisations, and security agencies.

The development had briefly raised hopes of a broader resolution, but the continued captivity of six individuals has remained a major concern for local organisations and residents.

Authorities have not yet issued a detailed public response to the latest memorandum submitted during the gathering.