Civil society organisations in Tengnoupal launched the protest over the killing of three Kuki-Zo religious leaders, while the NPF questioned claims surrounding the disappearance of six Naga civilians
Imphal: Fresh tensions have surfaced in Manipur after several Kuki civil society organisations announced an indefinite economic blockade in Tengnoupal district from May 28, demanding justice for three slain Kuki-Zo religious leaders and the safe release of abducted individuals.
In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the organisations backed Kuki Inpi Manipur’s call for a judicial-level probe into the killings and warned that the blockade would continue “until all abducted persons are released safely and justice is delivered”.
Groups supporting the agitation include the Kuki Chiefs’ Association, Kuki Women Union Tengnoupal, United NGOs Mission Council, Hill Tribal Council Moreh and the Kuki Students’ Organisation of Tengnoupal district.
Meanwhile, the Manipur unit of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) expressed concern over reports that Kuki civil society groups were “unaware” of the whereabouts of six Naga men allegedly abducted on May 13 from Leilon Vaiphei village.
The NPF questioned the contradiction, stating that women and a child allegedly abducted alongside the missing men were later released and had shared eyewitness accounts of the incident. The missing individuals were identified as Rev. Dr. Manu Thiumai, Dilip Thiumai, Phenrilungbou Chawang, Pherongwibou Thiumai, Kenpibou Chawang and Kliwangbou Abonmai.
The party warned that continued uncertainty surrounding the case could deepen mistrust between communities and urged authorities to ensure the “immediate and unconditional release” of the missing men.
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