Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh Wednesday appealed for the safe and immediate release of civilians reportedly abducted in Ukhrul district, amid rising fears of renewed tensions between communities in the state.
The appeal follows reports that suspected militants allegedly kidnapped several passengers travelling from Ukhrul to Imphal along National Highway 202. The incident reportedly occurred at Shangkai, a small Kuki village, under the jurisdiction of Litan Police Station.
According to preliminary reports, vehicles travelling along the Imphal–Ukhrul route were stopped near Shangkai, where some passengers belonging to the Tangkhul community were allegedly abducted by suspected militants believed to be from the Kuki community. However, official confirmation from authorities was still awaited at the time of filing the report.
Unconfirmed reports also suggested that an exchange of fire between armed groups took place in the Thoyee and Shangkai hill ranges, the latter being a Kuki village area, beginning around 9 a.m. on Wednesday.
While no official figures have been released, reliable sources indicated that around 27 individuals may have been abducted, including 24 Tangkhuls and three Kukis, by armed groups from the communities.
Taking serious note of the situation, Chief Minister Khemchand expressed deep concern over the reported detention of innocent civilians along the Ukhrul–Imphal road.
In a statement, the Chief Minister appealed to those responsible to uphold the highest values of humanity and ensure the safe and unconditional release of all civilians at the earliest. He assured the families of the victims and the public that the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness and will take all necessary steps to bring those responsible for the “cowardly act” to justice.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to the safety of every citizen of Manipur, the Chief Minister directed senior police and administrative officials to closely monitor the situation and coordinate immediate efforts to secure the release of the civilians.
He also called upon civil society organisations and community stakeholders to help maintain calm and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Warning against any unlawful activity, the Chief Minister said strict action would be taken against those involved in violence and urged all communities to refrain from actions that could further destabilise the situation.
