Imphal: Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) chief Conrad Sangma has urged the leaders of Naga and Kuki communities to immediately release all hostages on humanitarian grounds.
In a letter jointly addressed to the presidents of Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and United Naga Council (UNC), the NPP chief stated that as a fellow citizen and Christian of the North East, he is deeply pained by the continued captivity of innocent civilians.
The Chief Minister of Meghalaya stated that the six Naga men and 14 Kuki civilians reportedly held hostage since May 13 and 14, 2026, have caused immense suffering to their families and communities.
Sangma maintained that the abduction of civilians who have no role in any conflict inflicts unbearable pain and deepens division within our society.
“Mothers, children, and elders are living in fear and uncertainty. Such acts only widen the gap between communities that have lived together for generations in these hills and valleys,” he stated.
He called upon the leaders of both the Naga and Kuki communities to release all hostages immediately and unconditionally. Human life must transcend all differences. Every day of captivity adds to the trauma of families and communities.
Sangma also appealed to the leaders to ensure the hostages’ safety, medical care, food, and contact with families until they are safely returned home.
“Choose dialogue over violence. The challenge of Manipur can only be resolved through talks, not through abduction and fear. The youth of all communities deserves a future of peace, education, and opportunity,” he stated.
The NPP chief reaffirmed his party’s stance for peace, unity and the dignity of every citizen. I assure you of my full support, along with elders and civil society leaders from all communities, to facilitate a safe, dignified, and transparent release process.
“Let this act of compassion mark the beginning of healing for Manipur. The people of the North East are watching, and history will remember those who choose humanity in times of conflict,” he added.
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