By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Joint Tribes’ Council Manipur (JTCM) has announced an indefinite emergency shutdown across the Zeliangrong region, intensifying pressure on authorities to trace six Naga civilians who have been missing since May 13.
In a statement released on Sunday, the council said the shutdown would continue until the missing individuals are found, brought back safely, and those responsible are held accountable. The decision comes amid growing dissatisfaction over the planned release of 14 Kuki detainees while the whereabouts of the six civilians remain unknown.
JTCM alleged that the six men were taken away by individuals from Leilon Veiphei Kuki village with the support of armed Kuki groups operating illegally in the area. The organisation expressed concern that despite nearly three weeks having passed since the reported abduction, no significant breakthrough has been made in locating the victims.
The council questioned the rationale behind facilitating the release of the 14 detainees before any clarity emerges regarding the fate of the missing civilians. It argued that such a move undermines justice and raises serious security concerns for Naga communities in the region.
As part of the protest, commercial establishments along national highways have been shut down, while schools, colleges, government offices, private institutions and banking services have been asked to suspend operations. Transport services, including taxis and private vehicles, have also been halted. Restrictions on public movement and gatherings will remain in effect until further notice.
JTCM has laid out a series of demands, including the immediate rescue and unconditional release of the six civilians, continued detention of the 14 Kuki refugees until the missing men return safely, a detailed probe into the alleged role of the refugees and armed groups in the incident, and accountability from the state government for its response to the case.
Calling for public support, the council urged residents across the Zeliangrong region to strictly observe the shutdown, saying collective action is essential to ensure authorities prioritise the safe return of the missing civilians and deliver justice.