Manipur Government Confirms Hostage Situation Amid Rising Tensions
Hostage Crisis in Manipur
Home Minister Govindas visiting the family of the civilian killed in the attack near Jouzangtek in Noney district on Wednesday evening. (AT Photo)
Imphal, May 14: Following allegations from the United Naga Council regarding the hostage situation involving 20 civilians in the Leilon Veiphei area of Senapati district, the Manipur government has confirmed that over 38 individuals from both Kuki and Naga communities are being held captive across various locations in the state.
Home Minister K. Govindas Konthoujam stated that efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe release of these civilians and to restore peace amid the escalating violence in the region.
“Negotiations are in progress with civil society groups and political leaders to secure the release of the hostages. We must exercise restraint as violence must cease,” the minister remarked.
Govindas also mentioned that the Ministry of Home Affairs has been informed about the situation through the Intelligence Bureau. “We are actively managing the situation for those who are being held captive,” he added.
When questioned about the possibility of transferring the investigation to the National Investigation Agency or another central body, the Home Minister indicated that no decision has been made yet.
“The government has not reached a conclusion regarding the involvement of any central agency. However, a security review meeting was conducted yesterday under the Chief Minister's leadership, involving central paramilitary forces and state security agencies. A decision will be forthcoming,” he stated.
Govindas expressed concerns that certain factions might be intentionally undermining peace initiatives in Manipur. “We suspect that there are individuals who do not wish for Manipur to achieve peace and progress. We need to identify these elements,” he noted.
Earlier, the United Naga Council had reported that approximately 20 individuals from various communities were being held hostage in the Leilon Veiphei area.
According to a statement from the council, local sources indicated that these civilians were allegedly abducted around 10:45 AM by armed assailants.
New tensions flared on Wednesday morning when three church leaders, including one affiliated with the Thadou Baptist Association, were killed in an ambush in Kangpokpi district.
Later that evening, a Chiru Naga individual named Wilson Thanga from Dolang village in Noney district was shot dead, while his wife was injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on their vehicle in Joujangtek, Bishnupur district, as they returned home from Imphal.