Naga Students' Association Demands Action on Hostage Situation in Manipur
Urgent Ultimatum Issued by ANSAM
Scene after suspected militants shot dead three church leaders and injured four others in Kangpokpi (Photo: AT)
Imphal, May 31: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has set a four-day deadline for the Manipur Government to clarify the status of six Naga civilians who have reportedly been held hostage since May 13, demanding their release.
In a press release, ANSAM cautioned that if the government fails to act within the given timeframe, the Naga community may resort to a collective boycott of the current State Government.
Additionally, ANSAM may call upon Naga legislators who support the government to reconsider their backing for the sake of the Naga people's security.
This decision was made during an emergency meeting of ANSAM, which included former leaders of the organization.
The meeting assessed the ongoing security issues in Manipur, particularly focusing on the abduction of 18 Liangmai Naga individuals from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13.
According to ANSAM, this incident occurred in broad daylight near the 57 Mountain Division area in Leimakhong.
After discussions, ANSAM expressed its disappointment regarding the State Government's inadequate response in locating the six hostages, including two pastors, despite numerous appeals, public protests, and statements from Naga civil society groups.
In response, Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh previously announced the arrest of four suspects linked to the abduction, while security forces are actively searching for the remaining hostages.
On May 25, a large rally was held in Imphal, attended by hundreds from the Naga community and various Meitei groups, demanding the immediate and safe return of the six civilians taken hostage since May 13.
Protesters expressed their frustration over the delays in securing the hostages' release and called for more decisive action against those responsible for the abduction.
While some of the abducted individuals have been released, the fate of six remains uncertain, escalating tensions within the state.