A massive public rally in Kangpokpi witnessed emotional scenes as protesters raised slogans for peace and justice amid growing concern over missing Kuki-Zo hostages and students.
BY PC Bureau
May 17, 2026: In an emotional and desperate appeal, the families of 14 Kuki civilians allegedly being held by Naga militant groups since May 13 pleaded on Sunday for the immediate and safe release of their loved ones, describing the ordeal as a period of “unbearable grief” and agonizing uncertainty.
“We address you today not with the language of politics, conflict or adversaries but with the raw, heartfelt cry of mothers, fathers, wives and children,” the families said in a written statement issued on May 17.
The appeal came as thousands of people from the Kuki community gathered in Kangpokpi for a massive public rally demanding the unconditional release of the detainees, who include 13 residents from Taphou Kuki village and one from Hengbung village in Manipur’s Senapati district.
According to family members, the detained individuals are ordinary villagers with no links to armed groups or political activities. The statement emphasized the long-standing history of peaceful coexistence between the Kuki villages of Taphou Kuki and Hengbung and neighboring Naga communities in Senapati district.
“Our loved ones are not activists or combatants,” the families stated, adding that the detainees “have absolutely nothing to do with the wider conflict.”
READ: Kuki Student With Muscular Dystrophy Among Hostages in Manipur Standoff
The families also raised alarm over the deteriorating physical and mental condition of the hostages, saying many could be suffering from health complications, psychological trauma, and severe emotional distress.
“Many may be suffering from failing health, psychological trauma, and severe distress. Every passing hour inflicts profound, agonizing torment on our family,” the statement read.
The appeal was jointly signed by 14 concerned family members.
Three Students Among Hostages
The hostage crisis has taken an even more troubling turn amid reports that three Kuki students — Sehminhao, Hengunsei Khongsai, and Tonggoulen — remain missing days after they were allegedly abducted along with 11 other Kuki civilians in Senapati district.
According to community sources, the alleged abduction took place on May 13 near Mt. Everest School in Senapati while the students were reportedly travelling under police escort. The group was allegedly intercepted in broad daylight by individuals linked to the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA).
As of May 17, there has been no confirmed information regarding the whereabouts or condition of the missing persons.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among Kuki civil society organizations, student bodies, and community leaders, particularly due to reports that one of the missing individuals is a physically disabled orphaned minor.
Massive Rally in Kangpokpi
Rally in Kangpokpi on 17 May 2026 demanding the release of 14 Kuki hostages held by various Manipur Naga militant groups.@HMOIndia @easterncomd @official_dgar @Spearcorps You all look very weak. Can’t even get hostages released. Who will take you seriously? https://t.co/rOiZWi9FHP pic.twitter.com/WM4Fsbj19H
— Min ⭐ (@minkukizo) May 17, 2026
Thousands of residents, including women, youth, elders, and community leaders, participated in Sunday’s rally in Kangpokpi, carrying placards and raising slogans calling for peace, justice, and the immediate release of the hostages.
Protesters urged both the concerned Naga militant groups and government authorities to intervene urgently and ensure the safe return of the civilians. The rally concluded with collective prayers and renewed appeals for humanity, peace, and restraint amid escalating tensions in Manipur.
