Photo Courtesy: ukhrultimes
Imphal: The High Court of Manipur has directed the state government to submit an Action Taken Report by Monday regarding the abduction of six Naga civilians. The individuals were allegedly taken by Kuki armed groups from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13, leaving their whereabouts unknown for over 20 days.
Advocate Mark Khapai, president of the Naga Lawyers’ Association, Manipur, filed a Public Interest Litigation seeking urgent judicial intervention to ensure the safety of the hostages. The petition asks the state and central governments to intensify search operations and secure the release of the missing men. During Thursday's hearing, counsel for the petitioners, Advocate D. Jilius Riamei, noted that the state government previously claimed the case was transferred to the National Investigation Agency. However, the Deputy Solicitor General of India stated that the agency has not received any official notification regarding the matter.
The disappearance has sparked widespread protests and demands for accountability from Naga civil society groups and student bodies. The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur, has resolved to boycott the state government until the fate of the six men is established. Meanwhile, the Luangdimai Sentinel has criticized officials, questioning why the government describes the incident merely as a case of missing persons. They stated, "The denial of knowledge regarding the 6 Naga hostages by KIM, the apex body of the Kuki people, does not absolve it of moral or political responsibility."
While Kuki organizations maintain they have no information about the missing individuals, the court case continues to apply pressure on authorities. The government must now present details on the progress of the investigation when the matter returns to the High Court early next week.
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