Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed for the safe release of six Naga villagers still in captivity after 14 Kuki hostages were freed in Manipur. The development took place amid ongoing tensions in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts, with leaders calling for dialogue, humanity and peace.
Quick Glance
- Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio urged the release of six Naga villagers allegedly held captive since May 13.
- Fourteen Kuki community members were freed after nearly four weeks in captivity.
- The release was facilitated by Naga civil society organisations in Senapati district.
- Manipur authorities appealed for an end to violence and supported humanitarian efforts.
Agartala/Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has appealed to groups holding six Naga villagers to ensure their safe return. His statement came soon after the release of 14 Kuki community members who had remained in captivity for nearly four weeks.
The latest development has brought renewed focus on humanitarian efforts amid the continuing crisis in Manipur. Leaders from Nagaland and Manipur have described the release of the Kuki hostages as a positive step towards rebuilding trust between communities.
Kuki Hostages Released in Senapati District
According to officials, the 14 Kuki villagers were handed over to a police station in Senapati district on Tuesday afternoon.
The release was carried out by the United Naga Council and the Naga People’s Organisation.
A police official in Imphal confirmed that the released individuals were safe. However, authorities have not received any confirmed information about the six Naga villagers who were reportedly abducted on May 13.
The Nagaland Chief Minister urged those responsible for holding the six villagers to show the same humanitarian approach and allow them to reunite with their families.
Rio Calls for Humanity and Dialogue
Rio welcomed the release of the Kuki hostages and said the move reflected the importance of protecting human life during difficult times.
He said humanitarian actions can create space for dialogue and reconciliation. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the development would encourage communities to move towards peace and mutual understanding.
Rio also acknowledged the role of church organisations and civil society groups that appealed for the safe release of hostages.
He stated that discussions with Naga community representatives had continued in recent weeks to find a peaceful solution. According to him, the appeal was guided by compassion, human dignity and respect for life.
Manipur CM Welcomes Humanitarian Gesture
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed the release of the 14 Kuki hostages.
He appreciated the efforts of individuals, organisations and community representatives involved in the process. Singh described the move as a reflection of concern for human lives.
The Manipur Chief Minister also appealed to all communities to reject violence and support peace initiatives.
He said the prolonged conflict has caused suffering among victims and their families. Singh assured that legal action would continue against those responsible for violence and criminal activities.
Manipur Hostage Situation: Key Numbers
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Kuki hostages released | 14 persons |
| Naga villagers still missing | 6 persons |
| Reported abductions began | May 13 |
| Districts affected | Kangpokpi and Senapati |
| Earlier released hostages | Around 30 persons |
Kangpokpi Violence and Investigation
Police officials reported that different armed groups allegedly held around 50 people from the Kuki and Naga communities captive after violent incidents erupted on May 13.
The violence in Kangpokpi district claimed the lives of three church leaders and left four others injured.
Authorities, community leaders and civil society organisations worked together to secure the release of around 30 people on May 14 and May 15.
Several organisations representing both communities have continued demonstrations demanding the safe return of those still missing.
NIA Probe Into Abduction and Killings
Earlier, Manipur Chief Minister Singh said authorities had transferred the cases involving the abduction of six Naga villagers and the killing of three church leaders to the National Investigation Agency for a detailed investigation.
The probe aims to identify those responsible and establish facts related to the incidents.
Hope for Peace in Northeast India
The release of the 14 Kuki hostages has created fresh expectations among community leaders that humanitarian efforts can help reduce tensions.
Political leaders and civil society groups have repeatedly stressed that dialogue remains important for restoring peace in Manipur.
The latest appeal by Nagaland CM Rio highlights the need for continued communication, compassion and cooperation among communities affected by the crisis.
People Also Ask
Q1. Why did Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio appeal for the release of six Naga hostages?
A: After the release of 14 Kuki hostages, Rio appealed to the concerned groups to take a similar humanitarian step and safely release the six Naga villagers still in captivity.
Q2. Where did the Kuki hostages return after their release?
A: The United Naga Council and the Naga People’s Organisation handed over the 14 Kuki community members to a police station in Senapati district, Manipur.
Q3. Which agency is investigating the Manipur abduction cases?
A: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating cases related to the abduction of Naga villagers and the Kangpokpi killings.