Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio has strongly condemned the killing of six Naga individuals in Manipur, labeling the act as barbaric. He has called upon both the central government and the Manipur state administration to take immediate action to identify and prosecute those responsible for the crime.
The incident followed a period of intense mediation involving the United Naga Council and various civil society groups. The Naga people had recently facilitated the release of 14 hostages as an act of goodwill, influenced by appeals from church organizations such as the Baptist World Alliance. Rio noted that this gesture was rooted in Naga traditions and Christian values, as he had personally consulted with community leaders to prioritize a peaceful resolution.
Despite the release of the 14 hostages, the six Naga individuals held by the Kuki community were murdered. Rio described the situation as a violation of basic human principles. "This barbaric and reprehensible act represents a complete disregard for the sanctity of human life and the most fundamental principles of humanity," he stated.
The Chief Minister emphasized that accountability is necessary to restore public trust and prevent the situation from deteriorating further. He urged authorities to maintain impartiality and ensure the safety of all communities in the region. Addressing his constituents, Rio appealed for calm and restraint, urging them to resist responding to the violence with further hatred.
He encouraged citizens across the Northeast and Myanmar to remain united and vigilant while honoring the victims. Rio offered his condolences to the bereaved families and maintained that justice remains the only path to stability.
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