The United Naga Council (UNC) has formally appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his personal intervention to secure the immediate release of six Naga civilians allegedly held hostage by the Kuki National Front‑P (KNF‑P) and residents of Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district, Manipur, warning that the situation in the state is grave and rapidly worsening.

In a written representation addressed to the Union Home Minister and routed through the Deputy Commissioner, Senapati district, UNC president Ng. Lorho and general secretary Vareiyo Shatshang stated that eyewitness accounts and reliable sources confirm that six Naga civilians — including two pastors — remain in Kuki custody after the abduction of 18 people at Leilon Vaiphei on 13 May 2026.

Details of the abduction

The council said the 18 civilians, including men, women and married couples, were taken hostage in broad daylight at Leilon Vaiphei around 10:30–10:50 am on 13 May. Twelve women and one child were later released on 15 May, it added, leaving the six still unaccounted for.

Citing reliable sources, the UNC further alleged that the six Naga hostages may have already been killed while in the custody of KNF‑P, though the claim has not been independently verified. The council said the continued indecisiveness and inaction of the Manipur government has “unduly delayed” any resolution of the case and raised public doubts about the effectiveness of the state machinery and Central forces.

Allegations against State

The letter also questioned whether the perceived failure to act is linked to the influence of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, describing her as the “wife of the supremo” of KNF‑P, Thangboi Kipgen. The Naga leadership asserted that these concerns had deepened public anxiety and called into question the impartiality of the State administration.

“The Naga people therefore urge your good office to intervene for the handing over of the Naga hostages, dead or alive, without further delay,” the UNC said, stressing that only direct intervention from the Union Home Minister could de‑escalate the volatile situation.

Demand for immediate action

Drawing attention to the “explosive nature” of the hostage crisis, the council requested the Union Home Minister to “take urgent cognizance” of the matter and ensure an immediate resolution. It underlined that the safe return — or return of the mortal remains — of the six Naga hostages is essential both for justice and for restoring trust in the rule of law in Manipur.