Naga Women’s Union submits memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking safe release of six hostages and justice in Manipur violence.
Senapati, May 20: The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) on Wednesday submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking immediate intervention for the safe release of six Naga men allegedly abducted by Kuki militants in Manipur earlier this month.
The memorandum was submitted through the Deputy Commissioner of Senapati district and also raised demands for justice in connection with the killing of Wilson Thanga of Dolang village, along with calls for restoration of peace and security in affected Naga areas.
According to the memorandum, 18 Naga civilians, including women, a two-year-old child and pastors, were allegedly abducted on May 13 at Leilon Vaiphei village under Sapermeina Police Station while travelling to attend a wedding. The NWU stated that 16 of them were later released on May 15 “in an exchange,” but claimed that the whereabouts of six male hostages remain unknown. The six missing men were identified as Rev. Dr. Manu Thiumai, Pastor Henpibou, Phenrongwibou, Phenringlungbou, Dilip and Kaliwangbou.
The organisation alleged that the abduction was carried out by “SoO Kuki militants” in collusion with local individuals at Leilon Vaiphei village. It claimed surviving victims and co-passengers witnessed the six men being “violently dragged out” from vehicles in front of family members and fellow passengers. The memorandum further alleged that Kuki organisations had denied responsibility for the incident despite what it described as “living witnesses” and evidence from the scene. “We appeal to you and your good office to immediately investigate into the matter and release our men to prevent further escalation of violence in the state,” the memorandum stated.
The NWU also appealed to the Prime Minister to personally intervene in the situation, saying the continuing unrest in Manipur had severely affected normal life and economic activities in the state. The women’s body said the violence in Manipur had wider implications for the Northeast region and India’s connectivity to Southeast Asia. It further stated that local youths were increasingly angered by the prolonged conflict and destruction in the state.
In the memorandum, the NWU demanded the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups, alleging that the arrangement had allowed armed groups to operate freely. The organisation alleged that the SoO arrangement had enabled militant groups to possess sophisticated weapons and carry out violent activities with impunity. It claimed that the situation had affected Nagas, Meiteis and even sections of Kuki civilians.
“We seek restoration of peace and normalcy in our land before more lives are lost,” the memorandum said.
Apart from seeking the immediate release of the six hostages, the NWU also demanded arrest and prosecution of those involved in hostage-taking and killings, justice for Wilson Thanga, rehabilitation and protection of released women hostages, strengthening of state security forces, and restoration of peace and security in affected areas.
Copies of the memorandum were also addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs advisor for Northeast, Manipur Chief Minister, Home Minister, and the Director General of Police. The memorandum comes amid continuing ethnic tensions and security concerns in different parts of Manipur.
