New Delhi: The recovery of the bodies of six Naga civilians who were abducted last month has sparked widespread outrage in Manipur, with Naga organisations demanding swift action against those responsible and announcing protests across affected areas.
The apex Naga body in the state, the United Naga Council, strongly condemned the killings, describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights and human dignity. The organisation expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and called for a 24 hour shutdown in response to the tragedy.
According to community leaders, the six victims were among 18 Naga civilians allegedly taken hostage on May 13 by armed groups linked to ongoing tensions between Naga and Kuki communities. The bodies were recovered in Kangpokpi district and were reportedly found in a mutilated condition, intensifying anger among local residents.
Naga groups have declared that they will not accept the bodies of the deceased until their demands are addressed by the government. Among their key demands are the cancellation of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militant groups, the arrest and prosecution of members of the Kuki National Front (President) allegedly involved in the kidnappings, and the removal of Nemcha Kipgen from the post of Deputy Chief Minister.
The Manipur government also condemned the killings. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed condolences to the bereaved families and described the murders as a brutal act that would not go unpunished.
The Chief Minister assured that authorities would pursue those responsible and take action under the law. He stated that the government would not remain a silent observer in the face of such violence and pledged that the perpetrators would be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
The incident has further heightened tensions in the conflict affected region, with demands growing for accountability and stronger measures to prevent similar acts of violence.
