Imphal: The chief ministers of Manipur and Meghalaya have welcomed the release of 14 Kuki hostages, describing it as a positive step toward restoring trust.
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday appreciated all individuals and stakeholders involved in facilitating the safe release of the Kuki hostages.
The Chief Minister lauded the Naga society for their role in securing the safe release of the hostages and termed this act a spirit of compassion, responsibility, and concern for human life.
The Chief Minister also appealed to all sections of society to completely renounce all forms of violence. He stressed that the present crisis inflicts immense suffering on victims and their families and assured that strict legal action would be taken against those involved and that justice would be served.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Chief Minister welcomed and expressed his deep appreciation to the decision made by the United Naga Council (UNC), the Naga tribal hohos, civil society organisations, community leaders, and all concerned stakeholders to facilitate the release of the 14 Kuki civilians who had been detained in Senapati.
Sangma noted that this humanitarian gesture reflects the finest traditions of the Naga people, whose history, customs, and faith have consistently upheld the values of compassion, dignity, reconciliation, and respect for human life.
"At a time when emotions run high and communities continue to bear the scars of conflict, the decision to place humanity above differences sends a powerful message of hope to the people of Manipur and the wider Northeast," stated Sangma.
The Meghalaya Chief Minister further commended the UNC and all Naga organisations for demonstrating restraint, wisdom, and moral courage. Their actions have shown that even in the midst of difficult circumstances, peace and humanity can prevail over anger and division.
Further, Sangma appealed to all Kuki civil society organisations, community leaders, and concerned groups to reciprocate this noble gesture by ensuring the immediate and unconditional release of the six Naga civilians.
"The release of the 14 Kuki civilians was not merely an administrative decision. It was a humanitarian act rooted in the belief that innocent civilians should never become victims of conflict," he stated.
Sangma also expressed hope that the same humanitarian spirit will now guide the safe return of the six Naga men to their families.
The Meghalaya Chief Minister emphasised that the continued detention of any civilian prolongs the suffering of families and communities and delays the process of healing that Manipur so desperately needs. The release of the remaining captives would be a significant confidence-building measure and a powerful step toward restoring trust between communities, he stated.
Sangma also stated that his National People's Party remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and the protection of every citizen irrespective of tribe, community, or faith.
Let us seize this moment to demonstrate that humanity is stronger than conflict and that compassion remains the foundation upon which lasting peace can be built, he added.
| Manipur: 14 Kuki hostages released after 27 days in captivity