Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Fourteen Kuki civilians, including three students, who had allegedly been held captive since May 13, were released on humanitarian grounds and handed over at Senapati district headquarters on Tuesday.
The release took place at around 3:36 p.m. following negotiations facilitated by civil society organisations (CSOs) in Senapati district. However, uncertainty continues over the fate of six Naga civilians who are reportedly being held by armed Kuki groups.
The 14 individuals were handed over by Senapati-based CSOs to the chief of Taphou Kuki village in what organisers described as a safe and peaceful transfer. The CSOs stated that all those released were in good condition.
The handover was conducted in the presence of Senapati Police, personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Assam Rifles and district administration officials.
Speaking after the release, former detainee Paotinkai Chongloi said the group had spent 27 days in the custody of Naga village guards and had been treated well during the period.
He said the detainees were provided food, clothing, blankets and other essential items, adding that they did not face physical hardship during their captivity. Chongloi described the release as an unconditional humanitarian gesture and expressed hope that it would contribute to easing tensions in the state.
The release follows weeks of negotiations amid a hostage crisis that heightened tensions between communities and drew concern from civil society groups and local leaders.
Those released were identified as Thangtinlen Chongloi, Paotinkai Chongloi, Lunsei Chongloi, Kaimang Chongloi, Hengunsei Chongloi, Luntinlal Chongloi, Tonggoulen Chongloi, Sehginlun Chongloi, Sehminhao Chongloi, Paogoulhang Chongloi, Haominlun Kipgen, Lamgoulen Kipgen, Thanglemang Chongloi and Thangminlen Chongloi.
The release brings an end to a nearly month-long episode that had drawn concern from various quarters and is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts aimed at reducing tensions and fostering dialogue between the Naga and Kuki communities.