Manipur Government Delays Body Handovers Amid Naga Community Demands

In Manipur, the government has yet to release the bodies of six Naga individuals, causing unrest within the community. Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam confirmed the identification of the bodies but stated that their handover is pending due to demands from Naga organizations. These groups are calling for a review of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militants, which has led to protests and a 48-hour shutdown in several districts. The situation remains tense as authorities work to manage security and restore normalcy in affected areas.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 17:09 IST

Ongoing Tensions in Manipur Over Body Identification

Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam (left) and Manipur CM Y Khamchand Singh (Centre)

Imphal, June 14: The Manipur authorities have not yet released the remains of six Naga individuals currently stored at the Jawaharlal Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS).

On Sunday, Manipur's Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam announced that the identification of all six bodies has been finalized.

However, the families have not received the remains due to demands from the Naga community's apex body.

"The Government of Manipur is addressing the situation. It may take some time before the bodies are returned, as all issues need to be resolved," the Home Minister stated during a press conference.

When asked about the demands from Naga organizations for the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups, Konthoujam clarified that this matter extends beyond state jurisdiction.

"It is well-known that the SoO agreement involves not just the State Government but also the Government of India. We are currently in discussions with the central government regarding this issue," he explained.

These comments come in response to increasing calls from Naga civil society groups following the identification of six individuals who had been missing since an incident in Kangpokpi district on May 13.

Their bodies were discovered during security operations, leading to widespread anger and demands for justice.

In the aftermath, various organizations, including the United Naga Council (UNC), have submitted demands and memoranda seeking justice for the deceased.

A significant demand includes a reassessment of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militant factions.

The incident has ignited protests and shutdowns in numerous areas populated by the Naga community.

A 48-hour shutdown has severely impacted daily life in several hill districts, while tensions related to the killings have led to renewed clashes between the Naga and Kuki-Zo communities in parts of Kangpokpi district.

In response, security measures have been intensified in sensitive areas to prevent further unrest and to restore normalcy.