Thousands of aggrieved womenfolk staged sit-ins at the district headquarters in Ukhrul and Kamjong on Wednesday under the banner of the Naga Women Union (NWU), demanding the immediate release of six Naga civilians whose whereabouts have remained unknown after they were allegedly held captive by Kuki militants.
The demonstrations were organised by Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL), the Tangkhul women’s league, in line with the collective call of the NWU across Naga-inhabited areas in Manipur.
Political resignation demand
While pressing for swift legal action against those responsible for the abduction, protesters also called for the resignation of Manipur deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen, accusing her of being linked to the kidnapping incident.
Protesters alleged that Nemcha Kipgen’s husband’s armed organisation was involved in the kidnapping of six Naga civilians from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
“Release 6 Naga hostages now”
The womenfolk in traditional attire gathered at both venues, holding banners and chanting slogans including “Release 6 Naga hostages now” and “Govt of Manipur, act fast, save lives.” Demonstrators also echoed calls including “Nemcha Kipgen, resign.”
TNL cites Christian faith
At the Ukhrul demonstration held at the district mini-secretariat, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) president Sword Vashum condemned the hostage-taking of innocent civilians. He described the situation as a critical moment for the peace-loving Naga people and blamed what he called systematic acts of aggression and provocation by armed Kuki militants.
Vashum urged the Nagas community to remain firm in Christian convictions, warning that perpetrators would face divine judgment.
Scrap SoO Call
At both sites, demonstrators also demanded “Listen to people’s voice, scrap the SoO,” along with calls to “Bring back trust, security forces” and “Remove SoO from Naga areas.”
Memo to CM
Later, the Tangkhul Shanao Long submitted a memorandum to chief minister Y. Khemchand Singh through the Ukhrul deputy commissioner, urging immediate state intervention to secure the safe release of the six hostages and demanding prompt police action to arrest and prosecute those responsible, as described by the organisers.