Manipur authorities prepare to release 14 Kuki detainees to ease ethnic tensions

Imphal: Fourteen Kuki detainees are expected to be released today, June 1, as part of a push to lower community tensions in Manipur. The handover is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the presence of state government officials and Naga legislators, though authorities have not yet confirmed the specific location.

This development follows a cycle of retaliatory abductions that began after a deadly ambush in the Kangpokpi district on May 13. Following the attack at Kotlen, reports indicate that roughly 20 Naga civilians were taken hostage by Kuki groups, prompting Kuki community members to be detained in return.

While recent negotiations successfully secured the freedom of several individuals, six Naga hostages remain in captivity. The release of the 14 Kuki detainees is seen as a positive step toward restoring peace, though the status of the remaining Naga hostages continues to be a major point of concern. Local community leaders and organizations are continuing to urge for the safe release of everyone still being held to help stabilize the region.