Manipur: UNC announces economic blockade over captive Naga civilians
Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) has announced an inter-district economic blockade along National Highways passing through Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur, alleging that six Naga civilians, including two pastors, continue to remain in captivity despite repeated deadlines and search efforts.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the UNC said it had earlier submitted an ultimatum to the Government of Manipur on May 14, demanding the safe release of 20 alleged Naga hostages reportedly held by Kuki militant groups at Leilon Vaiphei village and Sapermaina Kuki village within 24 hours.
According to the organisation, 14 of the hostages were released on the morning of May 15, while six others are yet to be traced.
The UNC claimed that the state government had sought additional time until 2 pm on May 16 to continue search and rescue operations, following which the deadline was extended twice.
However, the organisation alleged that despite the extensions, the remaining civilians had not been rescued and accused state agencies of failing to secure their release.
“Given the situation, we are constrained to launch an Inter-District Economic Blockade along the National Highways in the Naga areas in Manipur with immediate effect until the safe rescue and release of the Naga hostages are duly carried out,” the UNC Media Cell stated.
The blockade is expected to affect movement of goods and vehicles along key highway routes in the hill districts.