Yumnam Khemchand Singh has assured Naga community leaders that security agencies are conducting large-scale operations to trace missing villagers in Manipur’s hill districts. The move follows recent violence in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts that triggered fresh ethnic tensions and hostage incidents.
Quick Glance
- Security forces launched intensive combing operations in vulnerable hill areas of Manipur.
- More than 40 people from Kuki and Naga communities were reportedly held hostage after recent violence.
- Around 30 hostages were released through coordinated efforts by authorities and civil society groups.
- Liangmai tribal organisations demanded stronger security deployment in Kangpokpi district villages.
Manipur Govt Intensifies Search Operations for Missing Villagers
Agartala/Imphal: The Manipur government has stepped up efforts to trace villagers who went missing during recent ethnic unrest in the hill districts. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday informed community leaders that multiple security agencies are actively searching suspected locations.
Officials said personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force and the Manipur Police are jointly conducting combing operations. The search focuses mainly on sensitive pockets in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
The Chief Minister met representatives of the Liangmai Naga community in Imphal. During the meeting, he assured them that the state administration remains committed to restoring peace and rescuing all missing persons.
Singh also appealed to all communities to avoid violence and cooperate with the authorities. According to him, peace and public trust remain the government’s immediate priorities.
Violence in Kangpokpi Triggered Crisis
The current crisis began after armed violence erupted in Kangpokpi district on May 13. The incident resulted in the killing of three Baptist church leaders. Four others also suffered injuries during the attack.
Soon after the violence, several groups allegedly detained civilians from both Kuki and Naga communities. Officials estimated that over 40 people were taken hostage across Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
The incidents further intensified tensions in Manipur’s already sensitive hill regions. Local residents reported fear, uncertainty, and restricted movement in several vulnerable villages.
Authorities immediately launched negotiations and rescue efforts with support from community elders and civil society organisations.
Hostage Release Offers Partial Relief
Government officials confirmed that around 30 people have already returned safely. Authorities secured their release between May 14 and 15 after continuous intervention by administrative officials, tribal leaders, and social organisations.
However, several villagers still remain untraceable. Families of the missing persons continue to seek urgent government intervention.
During Tuesday’s meeting, members of the Liangmai Naga Council and Liangmai Naga Women Union demanded immediate rescue operations. They alleged that unidentified armed men abducted several villagers, including a pastor, from Kangpokpi district.
A Liangmai tribal representative told the Chief Minister that even if some victims are no longer alive, their mortal remains should be returned to their families for proper funeral rites.
The emotional appeal highlighted the growing humanitarian concern linked to the ongoing unrest.
Tribal Bodies Demand More Security in Vulnerable Villages
Community organisations also urged the government to strengthen security in Liangmai-dominated villages. According to tribal leaders, several settlements in Kangpokpi district remain vulnerable to further attacks and abductions.
They demanded additional deployment of state police personnel in sensitive locations. Residents believe a stronger security presence could prevent fresh incidents and restore public confidence.
Several organisations jointly submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister. These groups included:
- Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur
- Liangmai Pui Naga Ruangdi, Manipur
- Liangmai Naga Katimai Ruangdi, Manipur
The memorandum outlined their major grievances and security-related demands.
Security Situation Remains Fragile in Hill Districts
The latest developments once again exposed the fragile law-and-order situation in Manipur’s hill districts. Ethnic tensions between different communities have repeatedly triggered violence, displacement, and fear in the region over the past months.
Security agencies have increased surveillance in sensitive areas. Officials are also closely monitoring movements in remote villages to prevent further escalation.
Political observers believe restoring confidence among tribal communities will remain a major challenge for the government in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, local organisations continue to demand stronger protection measures and quicker rescue operations for the missing villagers.
Incident Snapshot
| Incident Details | Information |
|---|---|
| State | Manipur |
| Affected Districts | Kangpokpi, Senapati |
| Date of Violence | May 13 |
| Church Leaders Killed | 3 |
| Injured Persons | 4 |
| Reported Hostages | Over 40 |
| Released Hostages | Around 30 |
| Agencies Involved | Manipur Police, CRPF |
People Also Ask (FAQ)
What triggered the latest unrest in Manipur?
The violence began after three Baptist church leaders were killed and four others injured in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
How many hostages were released in Manipur?
Officials said around 30 people from Kuki and Naga communities were released on May 14 and 15.
Which organisations met the Manipur Chief Minister?
Representatives from the Liangmai Naga Council, Liangmai Naga Women Union, and other Liangmai tribal bodies met the Chief Minister in Imphal.