Manipur: Naga Civil Society Groups Release 14 Kuki Detainees After 27 Days
The detainees, who were allegedly abducted in May amid heightened Naga-Kuki tensions, were handed over to village authorities and district officials in Senapati following appeals from civil society groups and churches.
IMPHAL- In a significant humanitarian development amid ongoing tensions between Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur, Naga civil society organisations (CSOs), student bodies and village guards in Senapati district on Tuesday released all 14 Kuki detainees who had remained in their custody for 27 days.
The 14 men, all residents of Taphou Kuki village, were handed over to the village chief and district authorities at the Senapati district headquarters at around 3:36 p.m. Officials and community representatives reported that all detainees were in good physical condition at the time of their release.
The men were reportedly abducted on May 13, 2026, near Mount Everest College in Senapati district while returning from work. Their release followed sustained appeals from churches, civil society organisations and district authorities seeking a peaceful resolution.
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According to those involved in the process, the release was facilitated by various Naga civil society organisations as a humanitarian gesture aimed at reducing tensions and encouraging dialogue between communities.
One of the released detainees, Paotinkai Chongloi, said that they had been provided food, clothing, blankets and regular meals during their detention. Representatives from Naga organisations also stated that the detainees had been treated humanely throughout their captivity.
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions following the killing of three Kuki church leaders, which further strained relations between the two communities. Earlier, on May 15, both Naga and Kuki groups had reportedly released 14 individuals each as part of a mutual exchange aimed at easing hostilities.
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An earlier effort by the United Naga Council (UNC) to secure the release of the detainees on June 1 was postponed due to public pressure from sections of Naga society seeking information regarding missing Naga hostages. Community leaders indicated that today’s release became possible after continued consultations and renewed appeals for de-escalation.
Reacting to the development, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh welcomed the safe release of the 14 detainees and described it as a positive humanitarian step.
In a statement, the Chief Minister appreciated all stakeholders who contributed to securing the release and praised Naga civil society organisations for facilitating the process. He said the gesture reflected compassion, responsibility and concern for human life during a period of heightened tension.
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The Chief Minister also reiterated his appeal for all communities to reject violence and pursue peaceful means of resolving disputes. He acknowledged the suffering experienced by victims and their families and assured that those responsible for unlawful acts would face legal action in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, Naga leaders urged Kuki organisations to help secure the release of the remaining six Naga hostages who are still reported missing. Community representatives expressed hope that reciprocal actions could help build trust and reduce tensions in the region.
While the release of the 14 detainees is being viewed as a positive step toward reducing hostilities in the Senapati-Kangpokpi belt, concerns remain over unresolved cases involving missing persons and the broader ethnic tensions that continue to affect parts of Manipur.
