Imphal protest demands release of hostages

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, May 20 : Categorically stating that the actions of certain Kuki groups are akin to the proverbial tiger devouring those who raised it, the Naga Women’s Union (NWU) has urged Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) to stop spreading falsehood and facilitate the the release of six Naga men abducted from  Leilon Vaiphei Village on May 13.
Demanding the safe release of the Naga hostages and urging security forces to take action, the Rongmei Naga Luh Phwam Manipur (Imphal Luangrian) organised a sit-in protest under the aegis of the NWU at New Checkon Tribal Market today.
Following the sit-in, a short rally was also held, attended by people from various communities.
During the demonstration, protesters called on Kuki groups to renounce violence before more lives are lost.
Speaking to the media, Mercy Kamei, a member of Rongmei Naga Luh Phwam Manipur, stated that no one knows whether the six Naga men in the illegal custody of the Kukis are alive or dead.
It is unfortunate that KIM blatantly denied the abduction of the six Naga civilians after 12 hostages were released, she said, expressing disappointment with the apex body of the Kukis for lying on a public platform despite being Christian.
She also claimed that the ambush at Saheibung Peak in Kangpokpi, which killed three Thadou Church leaders, was carried out by Kuki militants.
Stop blaming the Nagas for all atrocities committed by Kukis, she urged and questioned why Kukis are targeting every community in Manipur.
Mercy also expressed disappointment with the Manipur Government for failing to confirm whether the six Naga hostages are alive or in the custody of the Kukis, even after eight days.
She also accused the Chief Minister of shielding Kuki militants involved in acts of terrorism.
The Chief Minister travelled to various hill districts and met with community leaders to build public confidence, but in response, the Kukis have been targeting civilians, she said .
Neither the Centre nor the State Government has taken any action against Kuki armed groups, despite their involvement in the killings and forced disappearance of several civilians, the protester said.
After the sit-in, a short rally was taken out  from the Tribal Market to the New Checkon Traffic Point, raising slogans demanding the release of the Naga hostages and condemning acts of terrorism by Kuki groups.