NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Manipur’s Imphal witnessed a major protest on Monday, May 25, as thousands from the Naga and Meitei communities gathered over the alleged abduction of six Naga civilians reported missing for over a week.
The Imphal branch of the Naga People’s Union (NPU) organised the demonstration. It started from the locality of Tribal Market in Imphal and advanced towards the office of the Chief Minister, where the group intended to submit a memorandum to the government.
Security forces intervened and halted the procession at Palace Compound near the Thangal General statue. A small delegation of six members from the organisation was later allowed to meet the Chief Minister and submit their demands.
Participants from different indigenous Naga and Meitei groups joined the rally, many appearing in traditional attire, while police and central forces were deployed in strength across the area to prevent any escalation.
Demonstrators stayed put at Palace Compound until the delegation returned, raising slogans throughout the gathering demanding urgent action to secure the release of the six individuals and steps against those allegedly responsible.
Briefing reporters, the secretary of NPU Imphal said the missing civilians were believed to be in the custody of Kuki militants from Leilon Vaiphei and had remained unfreed for over a week.
He described the situation as deeply distressing for indigenous communities and said the rally was held as a peaceful democratic appeal seeking immediate government intervention.
The union leader added that several civil society groups had already approached authorities with memorandums, warning that further delay could lead to intensified agitation.
Protesters also pressed for stronger state action to protect civilians, restore peace, and address continuing violence affecting local populations.
Some voices during the rally raised questions over the appointment of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and made allegations regarding militant links, while also criticising existing security arrangements and agreements.
One speaker noted that the state had been experiencing prolonged unrest for around three years, affecting people across communities, and said residents were no longer willing to live under such conditions.
Another participant urged the immediate release of the missing civilians and criticised certain groups for denying involvement in their detention.
He alleged that the families of the victims and the wider community were being emotionally affected by the ongoing situation.
He further claimed the individuals had been held for nearly two weeks and urged authorities to act quickly to prevent further deterioration.
He also cautioned that the demonstration reflected a peaceful stance, warning that restraint should not be interpreted as weakness while calling for the safe release of the hostages.