Still no lead regarding six missing Naga civilians: Manipur home minister

Amid continuing ethnic tensions in Manipur, State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam on May 22 appealed to all communities to ensure the safe release of civilians allegedly being held captive, stressing the importance of humanity, peace and reconciliation.

Speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural “NCC Ekta Cup” organised by the National Cadet Corps in Imphal, the minister expressed concern over the reported abduction of six Naga civilians by suspected armed Kuki militants from Lailong Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13.

“There is still no lead regarding the six missing civilians,” Konthoujam said, adding that security forces and government agencies have been conducting continuous operations to trace the missing persons.

Making a direct appeal to those allegedly holding the civilians captive, the minister urged them to act on humanitarian grounds and release the victims immediately.

“We are all human beings and should believe in humanity and forgiveness. If there has been any misunderstanding or mistake, it should be resolved peacefully. I sincerely request those responsible to safely release the unfortunate civilians without delay,” he said.

The Home Minister also highlighted the deteriorating situation along key National Highways passing through conflict-hit areas of the state, where hundreds of vehicles remain stranded due to blockades and security concerns.

“More than 600 vehicles are reportedly stranded. The government is making every effort to reopen the highways,” he said.

Konthoujam said that the limited deployment of security personnel in sensitive areas has made the restoration of free movement difficult. He added that the government is engaging with various civil society organisations from different communities to facilitate the reopening of highways and restore normalcy.

On recent arms recovery operations, the minister said the state government’s ongoing de-weaponisation programme is aimed at reducing violence and restoring peace across both hill and valley districts.

“The recovery of arms and ammunition is part of the de-weaponisation drive. Operations are being conducted in both hill and valley areas, and the government will continue these efforts to restore normalcy and minimise violence,” he said.

The minister also described the “NCC Ekta Cup,” organised amid the prevailing unrest in the state, as an important initiative aimed at promoting unity, harmony and youth engagement in Manipur.