Manipur forces begin rescue operations in clashes (Img: Internet)
Imphal: Security forces in Manipur have launched rescue operations to trace and safely recover civilians allegedly held captive amid escalating tensions between Kuki and Naga groups in the state.
Officials said efforts are underway in affected areas following reports that several civilians from both communities were abducted after fresh violence erupted earlier this week. Authorities have not officially confirmed the exact number of people still missing, but community organisations from both sides claim several hostages remain in captivity.
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The latest unrest began on May 13 after four civilians, including three church leaders and a Naga man, were killed in separate incidents in Kangpokpi and Noney districts. The killings triggered retaliatory tensions and allegations of abductions by rival groups.
According to state officials, over 28 individuals from both communities had initially been held captive. Fourteen people from each side were reportedly released on May 15, while others are still believed to be missing.
A senior security official said rescue operations are being carried out with the objective of ensuring the safe return of civilians from both communities at the earliest.
Family members of the missing individuals have appealed to authorities and community groups for the immediate release of the hostages. Relatives from the Taphou Kuki community said many of those being held are ordinary civilians with no involvement in the conflict.
Community organisations also claimed that some of the abducted individuals include students and persons facing health complications, increasing concerns over their safety and wellbeing.
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Naga organisations, meanwhile, alleged that six civilians from their community are still unaccounted for after several others were released earlier this week.
The situation has also disrupted movement along National Highway-2, a crucial route connecting Manipur with neighbouring states. Several passenger buses and goods vehicles remain stranded after a shutdown call by Kuki groups following the killings of church leaders.
Passengers, including women, children and elderly people, have reportedly been facing shortages of food, water and basic necessities. Many stranded travellers have appealed to the government for secure passage and immediate intervention.
The renewed tensions underline the fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnic violence since 2023 has repeatedly disrupted normal life and deepened divisions between communities.
