Nagaland, Meghalaya CMs seek release of abducted Naga and Kuki civilians in Manipur

The chief ministers of Nagaland and Meghalaya have separately appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of six Naga men and 14 Kuki civilians who were reportedly abducted in the aftermath of the killing of three Thadou church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
In letters addressed to community organisations, both leaders stressed the need for humanitarian considerations, restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation of tensions in Manipur.
Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) president, Conrad K. Sangma, appealed to the presidents of the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the United Naga Council (UNC) for the unconditional release of all hostages. Expressing deep concern over the continued captivity of innocent civilians, Sangma said every additional day in captivity increased the suffering of affected families and communities.
Invoking humanitarian values and the spirit of Christianity, he urged those holding the captives to ensure their safety, provide food and medical care, and facilitate communication with family members until their release. He maintained that the challenges facing Manipur could only be resolved through dialogue and reconciliation, not through abduction and fear, and reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to peace, unity and human dignity.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio revealed that he had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on May 29 regarding the abduction of the six Naga civilians. According to Rio, he requested the Home Minister’s personal intervention to ensure their safe recovery and to bring those responsible to justice.
Rio said Amit Shah assured him that the matter would be accorded the highest priority and that all necessary measures would be taken by the concerned agencies to trace the missing persons and identify the perpetrators. He added that he had also discussed the issue with the Union Home Secretary and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, both of whom assured him that efforts were actively underway.
Acknowledging the anxiety among the families of the abducted persons and the wider Naga community, Rio appealed for restraint and cooperation with ongoing recovery efforts. He also urged the United Naga Council to facilitate the safe and unconditional release of 14 Kuki civilians reportedly being held by Naga volunteers.
Referring to Christian teachings and Naga traditions of protecting innocent lives, Rio called for compassion, forgiveness and reconciliation. He welcomed the appeal made by the Christian Forum, comprising church leaders and faith-based organisations.