Imphal: Fourteen Kuki men returned home to Kangpokpi district on Tuesday after being held hostage for 27 days. The group reunited with their families at the residence of the Taphou Kuki village chief, ending a humanitarian crisis that had sparked significant concern throughout the region. Before the reunion, the men underwent medical evaluations by Assam Rifles personnel and local health officials to ensure they were in stable physical condition.
The release followed weeks of sustained advocacy from tribal bodies, church leaders, and political representatives. Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills president Thangminlen Kipgen described the event as a moment of relief and gratitude, crediting the safe return to the collective goodwill of those who intervened. He stated, "The successful resolution of the crisis was a significant humanitarian achievement and a testament to dialogue and collective responsibility."
Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen expressed her thanks to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the chief ministers of Nagaland and Meghalaya, and various security forces for their roles in the negotiations. The Kuki Inpi Manipur and the Committee on Tribal Unity also extended their appreciation to a broad coalition of stakeholders, including the United Naga Council and Baptist church leaders, for their roles in the safe release.
The Committee on Tribal Unity specifically recognized the families of three slain Kuki-Zo church leaders who opted to pursue peace and reconciliation despite their personal tragedy. As families celebrate the return of their loved ones, organizations involved are calling on all communities to prioritize peaceful dialogue and mutual respect to move past regional tensions.
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