Imphal: Families of 14 abducted villagers from Taphou Kuki Village have ramped up their protest in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district. The group is calling for immediate intervention from both state and central governments to secure the unconditional release of their relatives who have been held hostage since May 13.
Hundreds of residents, including children and the elderly, have joined the sit-in. Protesters vowed to continue their agitation indefinitely until all captives are returned home. Family members expressed deep frustration, accusing local authorities of inaction and passing blame between districts. According to relatives, the abduction occurred near the border of the Kangpokpi and Senapati districts, leading to a breakdown in accountability because of jurisdictional disputes between the two administrations.
Villagers reported that 25 people were originally seized while traveling along National Highway 2. While some have since been released, 14 remain in captivity, including three students. Families allege the abductions happened in the presence of central security forces and local police. The continued absence of these individuals has caused severe emotional and financial strain, as many of those held are the primary breadwinners for their households.
Relative Ngahneikim Chongloi condemned the use of innocent civilians as pawns in wider conflicts. She urged those responsible to release the hostages on humanitarian grounds to restore peace to the region. The families are now looking to higher levels of government for a decisive response to end the prolonged crisis.
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