Tension Escalates in Manipur as 20 Civilians Remain Missing
Fresh unrest has gripped Manipur after the killing of three Kuki church leaders triggered renewed ethnic tensions, with reports indicating that 14 Kuki and 6 Naga civilians remain missing amid ongoing protests and rescue operations.
IMPHAL- Tension continues to escalate across the hill districts of Manipur following reports that at least 20 civilians — including 14 Kuki and 6 Naga individuals — remain missing amid renewed violence linked to the recent killing of Kuki church leaders in Kangpokpi district.
According to local sources and media reports, several hostages were released earlier, but many families are still awaiting the safe return of their relatives. Security forces have reportedly intensified combing and rescue operations in affected areas as tensions continue to spread across parts of the state.
The latest unrest began after a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of three Kuki church leaders, an incident that significantly heightened ethnic tensions between different communities in the region. Since then, protests, highway blockades, and shutdowns have continued in several districts, with growing public anger over the prolonged hostage crisis and the perceived slow pace of resolution.
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Families of the missing have appealed for peace, justice, and the unconditional release of all civilians allegedly held captive amid the violence.
Amid the worsening situation, a joint protest demanding the immediate release of six Naga civilians allegedly abducted by Kuki armed groups was held at Kanglatongbi in Kangpokpi district on Tuesday.
In another significant development, delegates of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), accompanied by representatives of several Naga civil society organisations, held a public meeting at the office complex of the Tangkhul Naga Zingsho Longphang (TNZL).
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The meeting brought together leaders and representatives from multiple Naga organisations who welcomed the initiative by COCOMI to directly engage with communities in sensitive border areas. Participants reportedly described the dialogue as an important step toward mutual understanding and solidarity during a period of deepening mistrust and instability.
During the discussions, speakers from both Meitei and Naga communities expressed concern over the continuing unrest and emphasised the importance of restoring peace, coexistence, and unity among indigenous communities in Manipur.
Meanwhile, the Council for Baptist Churches in North East India (CBCNEI) and the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) reportedly met the Chief Minister to discuss the deteriorating situation between tribal communities and urged steps toward de-escalation and peace-building.
The developments highlight the fragile security and humanitarian situation in Manipur, where recurring ethnic tensions continue to disrupt normal life and deepen social divisions across communities.
