Families of Kuki-Zo detainees seek release of 14 villagers in Manipur

Families of 14 detained Kuki-Zo villagers from Manipur have appealed for the immediate release of their relatives, alleging that those in custody are innocent civilians with no connection to violence or armed activity in the region.

The appeal was issued by family members of 13 residents from Taphou Kuki village and one resident from Hengbung village, who have reportedly remained in custody since May 13.

In a signed public statement, the families said they were speaking “not with the language of politics, conflict or adversaries, but with the raw, heartfelt cry of mothers, fathers, wives and children.”

They alleged that the detainees had no involvement in activism or the wider ethnic conflict and urged authorities to ensure their safe return.

“Many may be suffering from failing health, psychological trauma, and severe distress,” the statement said, adding that every passing hour was causing “profound, agonising torment” for the families.

The appeal also referred to the long-standing relationship between Taphou Kuki, Hengbung and Naga communities in Senapati district, stating that the villages had shared “a beautiful, unbroken history of peace, mutual respect and brotherhood” for generations.

The families further claimed that the detained villagers were “not activists or combatants” and had “absolutely nothing to do with the wider conflict or political storms surrounding us.”

Calling for compassion and understanding, the signatories said they were appealing “with folded hands” for the release of their relatives and expressed hope that peace and normalcy would return to the region.

The statement comes amid continuing ethnic tensions in Manipur and growing demands from several tribal and civil society organisations seeking the release of Kuki-Zo civilians allegedly detained during ongoing security operations.