Govt accountable for fate of captive youths: MLA
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 29 2024: Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar has stated that the government should be held accountable for any ill-fated consequences befalling the two Meetei youths held hostage by Kuki militants.

Stating that the youths were abducted while on their way to attend an Army recruitment rally, the MLA called for immediate action to secure their safe release.

Speaking at a free medical camp organised by Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) at Ishingthenbi relief camp on Sunday, the Khundrakpam MLA expressed grave concern over the situation.

Noting that a video of the two hostages pleading with chief minister N Biren to save their lives, recorded by their captors, has gone viral on social media, Lokeshwar warned that such a hostage crisis should not be taken lightly and emphasised that the responsibility for their safe release lies with the chief minister, who also heads the state's home department.

He condemned the actions of the Kuki militants, labelling it as an act of terrorism for holding innocent civilians hostage.

Lokeshwar also referred to the militants as cowards, accusing them of targeting civilians in their effort to destabilise the state.

He asserted that the militants' dream of disintegrating Manipur would never be realised.

The MLA also recalled previous incidents in which Kuki militants had abducted and killed innocent civilians, including students, as part of their violent tactics.

In addition to criticising the militants, Lokeshwar targeted the Central government for organising the recruitment rally in fringe areas of the state despite the ongoing unrest.

He questioned the decision to hold the rally in such vulnerable locations instead of safer areas like Khuman Lampak or Mantripukhri, given the tense situation.

He further suggested that the Centre's oversight in choosing-a secure location contributed to the unfortunate abduction of the youths.

The Congress MLA called for immediate intervention by the state and Central governments to resolve the hostage crisis and protect the lives of civilians.

He urged authorities to act swiftly and ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future.

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