Imphal: The Joint Tribes’ Council has demanded an immediate government investigation after receiving the bodies of six individuals who were held captive following an ambush in Manipur on May 13. Merachao Inka, the council's convenor, stated that the discovery followed a series of failed negotiations intended to secure the release of captives held by both Naga and Kuki factions.
Inka explained that an initial exchange of 14 Naga and 14 Kuki captives occurred during the height of regional tensions. While the Naga side held 14 additional Kuki captives, the council claimed that six Naga captives remained with Kuki groups. During subsequent talks, Kuki representatives denied holding the six individuals, eventually classifying them as missing persons.
The council opted to release their remaining 14 captives as a gesture of good faith to de-escalate the conflict. In exchange, the group received six bodies that were returned in a state of advanced decomposition. Inka stated, "Released 14 detainees in good faith, received six lifeless bodies."
The council is now calling for the arrest of specific individuals allegedly involved in the abductions, including a local chief, members of a women’s group from Leilon Vaiphei, and a Manipur Police officer. The council alleges the victims were handed over to the Kuki National Front (Progressive), who they accuse of the killings. No immediate response was provided by the accused parties or organizations regarding these allegations.
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