Manipur Congress criticizes government response to ongoing hostage crisis

Imphal: Manipur Congress leaders have accused the state and federal BJP governments of ignoring the ongoing hostage crisis in the region. Speaking at an event honoring Jawaharlal Nehru, former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh described authorities as silent spectators while civilians remain in captivity following a series of abductions.

The criticism follows an incident on May 13 when armed groups reportedly abducted over 38 people in the Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. While 31 of those individuals have been released, conflicting reports indicate that several others remain missing. Naga community representatives report that six men are still being held, while a Kuki civil society organization claims 14 members of their community are still in captivity.

Manipur Police Chief Rajiv Singh stated that authorities are currently in talks and conducting security operations to locate the missing individuals. Officials have arrested four suspects from Kangpokpi district linked to the abduction of the six Naga civilians. Despite these efforts, Congress leaders argue that the government has failed to maintain law and order and is prioritizing political interests over the safety of citizens.

Ethnic tensions have persisted in Manipur since violence first erupted in 2023. This ongoing unrest continues to challenge regional security and has raised urgent questions regarding the protection of civilians in the state.