Naga CSOs Release 14 Kuki-Zo Hostages After 26 Days; CM Hails Move as Humanitarian Breakthrough

Naga civil society organisations on Tuesday released 14 Kuki-Zo individuals after 26 days. The individuals were handed over to Senapati Police and the district administration by the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Senapati district.

Upon receipt, all necessary formalities were completed, including proper verification and medical examinations of the individuals. Adequate security arrangements were put in place, and the route was properly secured to ensure their safe and expeditious transportation to Taphou Kuki Village, according to police sources.

It was also stated that the individuals were handed over to the Chief of Taphou Kuki Village through a duly executed handing-over/taking-over memorandum. The entire process was conducted peacefully and in a coordinated manner with the cooperation of all stakeholders concerned.

Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, today welcomed the safe release of the 14 hostages as a positive and humanitarian step and appreciated all individuals and stakeholders involved in facilitating the release of the Kuki-Zo hostages.

The Chief Minister lauded Naga society for its role in securing the safe release of the hostages and described the act as reflecting a spirit of compassion, responsibility, and concern for human life.

The Chief Minister also appealed to all sections of society to completely renounce all forms of violence. He stressed that the present crisis has inflicted immense suffering on victims and their families and assured that strict legal action would be taken against those involved and that justice would be served.

Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen extended profound gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad Sangma, Naga civil society organisations, the Baptist World Alliance, and all organisations and individuals from various communities whose tireless efforts and deep humanitarian concern made possible the safe release of the 14 detainees from Taphou Kuki Village.

“At a time marked by anxiety and uncertainty, their intervention has brought immense relief to the affected families and has reaffirmed the enduring strength of compassion and collective conscience in our society,” Nemcha stated.

The Deputy Chief Minister said that the release stands as a solemn and powerful reminder that, even in the most difficult of times, dialogue, empathy, and shared resolve remain the greatest instruments of hope.

“The courage and perseverance shown by all those involved have not only restored hope to the families of the detainees but have also inspired the wider public by demonstrating that humanity, when guided by purpose and wisdom, can prevail over fear and division,” Nemcha added.

The Deputy Chief Minister also conveyed heartfelt appreciation for the noble humanitarian effort, stating that the spirit of compassion, responsibility, and brotherhood should continue to guide society as it strives to heal divisions, strengthen trust among communities, and build a future anchored in peace, justice, security, and enduring harmony for all the people of Manipur and Nagaland.