Manipur Government has assured the UNC of intensified operations and an NIA probe into the disappearance of six Naga civilians while appealing for the lifting of blockades.
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Imphal, June 1: The Manipur Government has assured the United Naga Council (UNC) that all possible measures are being undertaken to trace the six missing Naga civilians and address related security concerns, while also requesting the apex Naga body to facilitate the release of people in custody and ensure that no economic blockade disrupts public life.
In an official communication dated May 31, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar informed UNC president Ng. Lorho that the Government fully appreciates the concerns raised by the organisation and the wider Naga community regarding the disappearance of six civilians and the prevailing security situation.
The letter comes amid growing public concern and protests across several Naga-inhabited areas over the fate of the six civilians who have been missing since May 13. Various Naga civil society organisations have been demanding urgent action from both the State and Central Governments to secure their release and bring those responsible to justice.
According to the Home Department, the safety and security of all citizens remain the foremost priority of the Government. The communication stated that following incidents involving abduction and hostage-taking of persons from different communities, security forces have significantly intensified operations aimed at locating the missing individuals.
The Government said sustained Cordon and Search Operations (CASO), combing operations, area domination exercises and intelligence-based actions are currently underway in affected areas. These efforts, the letter stated, are being continuously reviewed and monitored to ensure the safe recovery of the missing civilians.
In a significant development, the Government informed the UNC that the case relating to the six missing persons has been transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
According to the Home Department, the transfer of the case to the NIA is intended to ensure an independent, transparent and expeditious investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the civilians.
The Government expressed confidence that the involvement of the premier central investigating agency would strengthen efforts to uncover the facts surrounding the case and help identify those responsible.
The letter also addressed concerns raised by Naga organisations regarding the implementation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement and the functioning of designated camps of SoO groups.
The Government assured the UNC that strict enforcement of the agreed ground rules under the SoO framework would continue. It further stated that the State Government, in coordination with the Government of India, would continue efforts towards the rationalisation and relocation of designated camps wherever necessary.
The issue of SoO compliance has emerged as a major concern among several Naga organisations in recent weeks, particularly in the wake of allegations that armed elements were operating in violation of agreed ground rules.
Responding to demands for action against those involved in the abduction of civilians, the Government stated that the ongoing NIA investigation would identify all individuals responsible for the crime.
The Home Department made it clear that anyone found involved in the abduction or related criminal activities would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law, regardless of their affiliation or status.
It further stated that security forces and investigating agencies are continuing efforts to identify, locate and apprehend all those responsible for the incident.
The Government reiterated its commitment to protecting all communities in the state and strengthening security arrangements in vulnerable areas.
According to the communication, efforts are also being made to maintain peace and harmony among different communities at a time when tensions remain high following recent incidents.
The letter comes at a sensitive time as public pressure continues to mount over the disappearance of the six civilians. The issue has become a rallying point for several Naga organisations, with calls for stronger government intervention and accountability.
In its concluding remarks, the Government appealed to the UNC to cooperate with ongoing efforts aimed at resolving the crisis.
“It is, therefore, requested to facilitate safe release of people and open up any kind of economic blockade in public interest,” the Home Department stated.
The appeal assumes significance against the backdrop of recent shutdowns and protest actions in parts of Naga-inhabited areas, where civil society organisations have been demanding the safe return of the missing civilians before considering any release of detainees held by Naga groups.
The Government's latest communication appears to be aimed at reassuring the Naga community that concrete steps are being taken to address the issue while also seeking cooperation to prevent further disruption of public life.
As investigations continue and security operations intensify, attention remains focused on efforts by the State Government, Central agencies and civil society organisations to secure the safe recovery of the six missing civilians and prevent any further escalation of tensions in the region.
