Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), a prominent apex civil society body based in Senapati, Manipur, has issued a sharp rebuttal to a non-negotiable ultimatum served by the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex Kuki body in the state, demanding the release of all Kuki hostages.
The volatile hostage crisis remains unresolved, with the whereabouts of 14 Kuki civilians and six Naga individuals still unknown. Reports stated that the missing Naga individuals include Rev. Manu Thiumai (45), Phenrongwi Thiumai (43), Phenrilung Chawang (36), Kaliwangbou Abonmai (23), Pastor Kenpibou (28), and Dilip Thiumai (33), all hailing from Konsakhul and Juna villages.
In recent developments, the Naga community has already released 14 Kuki civilians, six from Ireng Naga village and eight from Senapati district.
Reacting strongly to KIM’s ultimatum, the NPO fired back, advising the Kuki apex body to “first remove the dirt from its own face before attempting to lecture others.”
The NPO recalled the Shangkai incident, where 21 innocent Naga civilians were taken hostage and robbed of their belongings by Kukis, stating that the practice of taking innocent commuters hostage is widely known in the public domain.
Furthermore, the NPO vehemently rejected accusations by KIM blaming Nagas for the May 13 ambush that killed three religious leaders in Kangpokpi. Challenging KIM to provide evidence, the NPO emphasised: “It is the earnest appeal of the Nagas that they should not be blamed for every unwanted incident occurring anywhere.”
Highlighting that all the victims of the ambush belong to the Thadou community, the NPO stated that the Thadou Inpi are in the best position to understand the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The NPO urged Kukis to respect Thadou sentiments and refrain from interfering in their community’s affairs.
The ongoing hostage exchange is being facilitated by local negotiators, civil society groups, and security forces.
The government has also requested the public to cooperate with the administration and security forces in maintaining peace and ensuring the safe release of the remaining civilians.