By NE NOW NEWS
Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) on Monday cancelled the proposed release of 14 Kuki detainees that had earlier been scheduled for 2 pm in the presence of Home Commissioner Ashok Kumar and other dignitaries.
The apex Naga body said the decision was taken in view of prevailing sentiments among the Naga public.
In a declaration issued from its headquarters in Senapati, the UNC stated that the proposed release stood cancelled considering the growing public concern surrounding the issue. The statement was issued at around 6 pm on Monday.
“Considering the prevailing sentiments of the Naga public, the proposed release of the 14 Kuki detainees, earlier scheduled at 2.00 PM on June 1, 2026, hereby stands cancelled,” the declaration signed by UNC president Ng. Lorho stated.
Earlier in the day, the UNC had announced the proposed release of the 14 Kuki detainees held under the custody of the Naga Village Guard–Northern Command, describing the move as a humanitarian gesture rooted in Naga customary values, Christian principles and respect for international human rights norms.
According to a statement dated June 1, the decision followed appeals from the global Baptist community, Naga churches, tribal bodies and civil society organisations, along with assurances from the Union Home Ministry and the Government of Manipur regarding efforts to trace the abducted Naga civilians, secure the release of remaining hostages, identify and arrest those responsible for the abductions, and enforce the Suspension of Operations (SoO) ground rules.
The UNC also referred to appeals by several leaders, including Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma and Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio, seeking the unconditional release of the hostages.
The organisation stated that, following consultations with stakeholders, it had intervened for the release of the 14 detainees as a conscious step towards peace and humanity, while reiterating its demand for the immediate and safe release of the six Naga hostages.
Meanwhile, security was heightened in and around Karong, with personnel from the Army, Manipur Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
At around 5:30 pm, a small group of youths gathered outside the UNC office, with the crowd gradually increasing as the evening progressed.
Public concern over the proposed release of the 14 Kuki detainees intensified, with many seeking clarity regarding the conditions attached to the move and the demands placed before the authorities.
Several people also questioned the status of the six Naga hostages, demanding information on whether they were alive, dead or in what condition they were being held.
The uncertainty surrounding the fate of the six hostages appeared to be a major factor behind the public sentiment that ultimately led to the cancellation of the proposed release.