31 Hostages Freed in Manipur as Authorities Continue Efforts to Rescue Seven Others

Fresh ethnic tensions in Manipur have triggered a major security concern after dozens of people from the Kuki and Naga communities were allegedly taken hostage following violent clashes in the hill districts of the state. Officials confirmed that 31 captives have now been released, while seven others are still believed to be held by armed groups in remote areas.

The abductions reportedly took place after a series of violent incidents in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts earlier this month. According to reports, suspected militants shot dead three church leaders and injured several others in Kangpokpi district, escalating tensions between local communities. In another incident in neighbouring Noney district, a civilian was killed while his wife sustained injuries during the violence.

Authorities said the hostage crisis deepened existing ethnic divisions in the state, where tensions among Kuki, Naga and Meitei groups have continued since the outbreak of large-scale violence in 2023. Security agencies and local officials launched negotiations with the help of civil society organisations and community leaders to secure the release of the captives.

Several hostages were freed in phases over the past few days. Officials stated that among those released were 12 Naga women who were handed over to security personnel at Makhan village. Fourteen members of the Kuki community, including women and men detained in Senapati district, were also released after discussions between local groups and authorities. In addition, two Salesian brothers associated with Don Bosco institutions were freed separately.

Some of the released captives described difficult conditions during their detention. According to their statements, they were blindfolded, moved repeatedly through forested areas and forced to travel long distances under armed escort. Although many reported fear and psychological stress during captivity, at least one released hostage claimed they were not physically assaulted.

Despite the release of most captives, tensions remain high as seven people are still reportedly in captivity. Kuki organisations alleged that villagers from Taphou Kuki village in Kangpokpi district continue to be detained by Naga groups. Meanwhile, a Naga organisation known as the Tahazam Youth Forum reportedly admitted to detaining some individuals, describing the action as retaliation for earlier alleged abductions involving Naga civilians.

Community organisations from both sides have urged the state government to intervene immediately and ensure the safe return of all remaining hostages. The United Naga Council and Kuki Inpi Manipur separately appealed for peace and demanded stronger action from authorities to prevent further escalation.

Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam said the government is continuing talks with civil society groups, local leaders and security agencies to secure the release of the remaining captives. Additional security personnel have been deployed in sensitive districts to prevent fresh violence. The latest incidents underline the fragile security situation in Manipur, where repeated ethnic clashes and retaliatory attacks have raised fears of widening instability across the state’s hill regions.