Security forces intensified combing and search operations across the hill terrains of Kangpokpi district on Wednesday as tensions continued to escalate over the abduction of civilians amid the recent violence involving Naga and Kuki groups in Manipur.
According to police, security personnel assisted by sniffer dogs have been conducting search operations in the hill ranges surrounding Leilon Vaiphei, Songtun, Khunkho and P Molding villages in Kangpokpi district in an effort to rescue those still missing.
More than 38 people were abducted and held hostage in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts on May 13, hours after three church leaders were shot dead in an ambush in Kangpokpi. Officials stated that 31 individuals have so far been released, while search operations for the remaining missing persons are continuing.
The ongoing rescue efforts come amid growing protests by Naga civil society organisations demanding the release of six Nagas allegedly still being held captive.
Under the banner of the Naga Women’s Union, protests were staged across the Naga-majority districts of Senapati, Ukhrul, Chandel, Tamenglong, Kamjong and Noney on Wednesday.
In a memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the union alleged that 20 Naga civilians were abducted by Kuki militants in two separate incidents, of whom 14 were later released following a hostage exchange.
The organisation identified the six missing individuals as Rev Dr Manu Thiumai, Pastor Henpibou, Phenrongwibou, Phenringlungbou, Dilip and Kaliwangbou.
“The abduction of innocent Naga civilians, including women, a minor child and pastors, was carried out in broad daylight,” the memorandum stated.
The union demanded immediate intervention by the Centre to secure the release of the remaining hostages, arrest those involved in the abductions and killings, and ensure protection and rehabilitation for those released.
The women’s body also demanded abrogation of the Centre’s Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki insurgent groups, alleging continued insecurity in Naga areas.
Meanwhile, Kuki organisations claimed that 14 Kuki individuals were also still missing and alleged that they were being held by Naga groups.
On May 15, both communities released 14 hostages each following negotiations, though tensions have continued over the fate of the remaining missing persons.
According to The Hindu, on May 19, a Liangmai Naga community leader who met Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh reportedly told the government that even if the missing individuals were dead, their bodies should be returned to their families.
In a separate development, a delegation from Sinakeithei village in Ukhrul district met the Chief Minister in Imphal on Wednesday and sought deployment of India Reserve Battalion personnel, citing repeated attacks and growing insecurity in the area.