In a letter addressed to UNC president N.G. Lohrii, the Nagaland Chief Minister stressed the importance of compassion, reconciliation, and protecting innocent lives while urging restraint from all sides.
BY PC Bureau
May 31, 2026: In a significant move to de-escalate tensions in Manipur, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has urged the United Naga Council (UNC) to intervene and secure the immediate and unconditional release of fourteen Kuki individuals reportedly being held by Naga volunteers.
In an official letter dated May 30, 2026, addressed to Mr. N.G. Lohrii, President of the United Naga Council (Manipur), the Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the abduction of six persons from the Naga community in Manipur, which has caused widespread anguish among Nagas across the region. He appealed for restraint and full cooperation to ensure the safe recovery of the abducted Nagas and the maintenance of peace and harmony.
Dr. Rio stated that he had a telephonic conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on May 29 and requested his personal intervention. The Union Home Minister assured him that the matter would be given the highest priority, with all concerned agencies directed to trace the abducted persons, identify the perpetrators, and secure their early release.
The Chief Minister also said that he had spoken to the Union Home Secretary and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, impressing upon them the urgency of the situation. Both officials assured him that the matter is being actively pursued.
READ: INDIA Block Rallies Behind Mamata Banerjee After Assault on Abhisek
Highlighting the critical nature of the ongoing crisis, Dr. Rio specifically called upon the UNC to prevail upon the Naga volunteers holding the fourteen Kuki individuals. He emphasised the need for their safe and unconditional release, stating:
“At this critical juncture, it is imperative that we remain guided by the teachings of Christianity, the values of compassion, forgiveness, and reconciliation, and the long-cherished Naga tradition of protecting innocent lives and upholding human dignity.”
The Chief Minister appreciated the constructive role being played by the UNC and encouraged it to continue engaging with authorities and stakeholders toward a peaceful resolution. He also welcomed the appeal issued by the Christian Forum, comprising church leaders and faith-based organisations, which called for upholding the sanctity of human life and rejecting violence and retaliation.
Dr. Rio concluded by expressing hope that, through coordinated efforts, goodwill, and collective responsibility, a peaceful resolution can be achieved at the earliest, preventing any further escalation of tensions in the region.
The letter comes amid heightened ethnic tensions in Manipur, where clashes between communities have led to abductions and counter-abductions. Naga and Kuki-Zo groups have been particularly affected in parts of the state.
This appeal from the Nagaland Chief Minister is being seen as a timely intervention aimed at protecting innocent lives and promoting communal harmony through dialogue and humanitarian considerations.
