Senapati, May 17, 2026 — The Working Committee of the United Naga Council (UNC) has announced an indefinite inter-district economic blockade along National Highways in Naga areas of Manipur, alleging that six Naga civilians remain in the custody of Kuki militant groups despite repeated appeals and extended deadlines.
In a public statement issued on Saturday, the UNC stated that it had submitted an ultimatum to the Government of Manipur on May 14 demanding the immediate and safe release of 20 Naga hostages allegedly held at Leilon Vaiphei village and Sapermeina Kuki village.
According to the statement, 14 of the hostages were released on the morning of May 15, while six others, including two pastors, continue to remain untraced. The council said the State Government had sought additional time until 2 PM on May 16 to conduct search and rescue operations.
The UNC further stated that the deadline was deferred twice to facilitate the government’s efforts. However, it alleged that the authorities had failed to rescue the remaining civilians even after the extensions.
“Reports have been received that the state machineries have not been able to trace and rescue them even after well past the deadlines,” the statement said.
Citing the situation, the UNC announced the launch of an “Inter-District Economic Blockade” with immediate effect, stating that the agitation would continue until the safe rescue and release of the remaining hostages is ensured.
The statement was issued by the Media Cell of the Working Committee, United Naga Council, headquartered at Tahamzam (Senapati).
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