UNC Launches Inter-District Economic Blockade in Naga Areas

The United Naga Council (UNC) has launched an inter-district economic blockade along the National Highways in the Naga areas of Manipur with immediate effect until the safe rescue and release of the Naga hostages are carried out.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the UNC stated that the council had submitted a demand to the Government of Manipur on May 14 for the immediate and safe release of 20 Naga hostages allegedly held by Kuki militant groups at Leilon Vaiphei village and Sapermaina Kuki Village within 24 hours.

The UNC stated that on the morning of May 15, fourteen of the Naga hostages were released, leaving the fate of the remaining six, including two pastors, uncertain. The State Government had requested more time until 2 PM on May 16 to trace and release the remaining hostages. The deadline was subsequently deferred twice to facilitate the government in successfully carrying out the search operations and ensuring the safe release of the hostages.

However, even after these deferments, the six Naga civilians are still reportedly being held hostage by the Kuki militants, as reports indicate that the state machinery has not been able to trace and rescue them despite the lapse of the deadlines, the UNC added.