Imphal: The All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding the safe release of six Liangmai Naga individuals abducted by Kuki militant groups. The decision followed an emergency council meeting on May 24, where leaders reviewed the May 13 disappearance of 18 people near the Leimakhong-based 57 Mountain Division area.
ANSAM President Th. Angteshang Maring stated that the government has until June 2 to locate the remaining six hostages, which include two pastors. Should the authorities fail to act, the association plans to initiate a collective boycott of the current administration. Maring indicated that the group may also urge Naga legislators to withdraw their support for the government to protect the interests of the community.
The association expressed deep frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation despite ongoing public protests. Furthermore, ANSAM raised concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest involving Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen due to familial ties with a Kuki militant leader. They also criticized Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam for failing to address security failures, specifically regarding recent violence in the Kamjong district.
Beyond the immediate rescue, ANSAM is calling for the prosecution of those involved in the deaths of Naga civilians and church leaders. The organization also officially requested the termination of the Suspension of Operations agreement currently in place with Kuki militant groups.
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