United Naga Council Initiates Economic Blockade in Manipur Over Ongoing Hostage Crisis

Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) has officially launched an inter-district economic blockade across national highways in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur. This drastic measure comes in response to the state government's inability to secure the release of six Naga civilians, including two pastors, who remain in captivity despite multiple intervention efforts.

The current crisis follows an ultimatum issued by the UNC on May 14, which demanded the immediate release of 20 individuals reportedly held by Kuki militant groups at Leilon Vaiphei and Sapermaina Kuki villages. While 14 captives were successfully released on May 15, the remaining six individuals could not be located. Although the UNC granted the Manipur government several deadline extensions for search and rescue operations, the group contends that state agencies have ultimately failed to resolve the situation.

In a public statement released on May 17, the UNC stated that the blockade will remain in force until the final six hostages are safely returned. The organisation asserts that the economic action is a necessary step following the expiration of the government's extended deadline of May 16.