Kuki Inpi Manipur Welcomes Release of 14 Hostages

Imphal: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) officially welcomed the safe return of 14 Kuki-Zo individuals who had been held captive since May 13. The organization expressed gratitude toward the Central and Manipur state governments, the Director General of Police, and the Assam Rifles for their role in the rescue.

Success in securing the return of the hostages followed a collaborative meeting in Senapati on June 7. The United Naga Council, the Naga Students’ Federation, and various civil society organizations worked alongside government agencies to coordinate the release. KIM also highlighted the efforts of Christian religious leaders from Nagaland and Manipur, who stepped in to facilitate the return of detainees following the recent killing of three Kuki-Zo pastors.

Describing the release as a vital opportunity to de-escalate tensions, the organization urged all parties to prioritize reconciliation. Addressing the cycle of violence, the group stated, "an eye for an eye only makes the whole world blind." KIM further appealed to all communities to move past suspicion and prejudice, encouraging them to act in ways that reflect a commitment to justice and love.