Demonstrators seek action over alleged abduction case, call for repeal of SoO agreement and dismissal of Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen
Imphal: Hundreds of members of the Naga community, joined by several Meitei supporters, staged a protest rally in Imphal on Monday demanding the safe return of six civilians allegedly abducted by suspected Kuki militants earlier this month.
The march, organised by the Naga People’s Union Imphal, began from the Tribal Market area in Imphal East and moved toward the residence of Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh. However, security personnel stopped the demonstrators near Palace Gate, close to the chief minister’s bungalow.
Despite the restrictions, a delegation of the protestors was allowed to meet the chief minister and submit a memorandum seeking immediate intervention in the case.
The organisation alleged that armed Kuki militants were behind the abduction of six Naga men and demanded strict action. Protesters also called for the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, alleging links between her family and a Kuki militant outfit.
During the rally, demonstrators raised slogans demanding the unconditional release of the missing civilians and repeal of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement signed with Kuki insurgent groups. Placards criticising the agreement and the deputy chief minister were also displayed.
The protest comes after more than 38 people were reportedly abducted in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts on May 13 following the killing of three church leaders. Authorities have since secured the release of 32 individuals, while six Naga men remain missing.
“We have conducted operations and held several rounds of talks regarding the missing persons,” Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh said.
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