Senapati, June 9: Fourteen Kuki individuals who had been under the custody of Naga village guards since May 13 were released on humanitarian grounds and safely handed over to their community representatives at Senapati district headquarters on Tuesday afternoon.
The transfer took place at around 3:36 p.m. and was facilitated by various civil society organisations (CSOs) of Senapati district. The released individuals were formally handed over to the chief of Taphou Kuki village in what was described as a peaceful and coordinated process.
Authorities from the Senapati district administration, Senapati Police, personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and the Assam Rifles were present during the handover to ensure a smooth and secure transfer.
The 14 released individuals were identified as Thangtinlen Chongloi, Paotinkai Chongloi, Lunsei Chongloi, Kaimang Chongloi, Hengunsei Chongloi, Luntinlal Chongloi, Tonggoulen Chongloi, Sehginlun Chongloi, Sehminhao Chongloi, Paogoulhang Chongloi, Haominlun Kipgen, Lamgoulen Kipgen, Thanglemang Chongloi, and Thangminlen Chongloi.
According to the CSOs, all detainees were released in good health and without any conditions attached. The organisations emphasized that the decision was taken on humanitarian considerations and reflected a commitment to peace and coexistence.
Speaking to the media after his release, former detainee Paotinkai Chongloi recounted his experience during the 27-day period in custody. He stated that the detainees were treated with dignity and care throughout their stay.
“We were treated well and provided with the best food available in the area. We were also given clothes, blankets, and other necessities,” he said.
Paotinkai further noted that the detainees received two meals a day along with tea and did not suffer physical hardship during their detention. Expressing gratitude, he described the conduct of the Naga village guards as exceptional.
“We have learned a great lesson from our Naga brothers. Their kindness and humanity have been extraordinary, special, and unique,” he remarked.
He also appealed to members of his own community to take inspiration from the compassion shown during the difficult period and to work towards peace and mutual understanding amid the ongoing tensions in Manipur.
Highlighting the nature of their release, Paotinkai stressed that the detainees had been freed unconditionally and solely on humanitarian grounds.
The release concludes a nearly month-long episode that had attracted attention from various sections of society. Observers believe the development could help build confidence between communities and contribute positively to ongoing efforts aimed at reducing tensions, promoting reconciliation, and encouraging dialogue in the region.
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