The Manipur government has made the decision to transfer the investigation of the abduction of six Naga villagers to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh announced this measure on Saturday, noting that it comes during a period of heightened tensions in the hill districts of the state. This announcement follows a meeting with a six-member delegation from the United Naga Council (UNC), which included its president NG Lorho, and various senior officials.

The meeting took place at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, where discussions focused on the current law and order situation in Manipur. Alongside the Chief Minister were Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, and several Naga Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), all of whom expressed concern over the stability in the region.

Efforts to Locate Missing Villagers

According to an official statement, the UNC delegation placed emphasis on the need for the government to enhance its efforts to trace the six abducted villagers from Konsakhul village in Kangpokpi district, who have been unaccounted for since May 13. The Chief Minister reiterated that the investigation into their abduction will now fall under the jurisdiction of the NIA, highlighting the seriousness with which the situation is being regarded.

Additionally, Khemchand Singh mentioned that there had already been a transfer of another case to the NIA, specifically the investigation into the killing of three church leaders in the same district earlier in May. This transfer illustrates the increasing involvement of central agencies in addressing the rising incidents of violence in the area.

Since May 14, search and rescue operations have been ongoing to locate the missing villagers. The Chief Minister has urged the UNC to assist in securing the release of 14 Kuki civilians, who the government claims have also been taken hostage since the outbreak of violence. Singh appealed to multiple community organisations to work collectively towards restoring peace and order in the region.

Amidst Rising Tensions and Violent Incidents

The decision to transfer the case follows a series of violent events that occurred on May 13 in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. Reports indicate that over 38 individuals were abducted during this time, shortly after the ambush that led to the deaths of three church leaders. Officials have noted that 31 of those who were kidnapped have since been released, including 12 women from the Naga community and 16 individuals from the Kuki community. However, the fate of the six Naga men remains uncertain.

In light of these developments, Kuki Inpi Manipur, the representative organisation for Kuki tribes in the state, has alleged that 14 members of their community are still being held by Naga groups. These allegations contribute to the escalating tensions in the ethnically sensitive hill districts of Manipur.

Presently, the state government is actively seeking to mitigate further violence and restore calm within the affected regions. This ongoing effort underlines the complexities of the situation, as inter-community dynamics continue to evolve in response to the ongoing crisis.

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