Sit-in protest at Bishnupur demands release of abducted Naga civilians
Source: The Sangai Express

Moirang, May 21 2026: In view of the prolonged violence in the State since May 3, 2023, and the alleged abduction of 18 Naga civilians, a sit-in protest demonstration was held today at Bishnupur Bazar demanding military crackdown against "Kuki narco-terrorists", an end to India's alleged "proxy war" in Manipur, and a response from the Government to seven questions raised by the people.

The protest, held under the aegis of COCOMI, was jointly organised by the Bishnupur Akoiba Apunba Lup, Rongmei Maga Council Manipur, Nagai Taiphai Luhphuwam, Foothill Naga Coordinating Committee and Bishnupur Bazar women vendors.

The demonstration witnessed participation from both valley and hill communities, including residents from Kalalong, Namgaijang, Reangjang, Siangai Namdai, Chong Phun, Siangai Namkao, Chalungkhou, Chinikon, Nungshai, Naorem, Dimdailong, Wainem, Chothe and Toubul Kabui villages, along with women vendors from Bishnupur Keithel and nearby areas.

Speaking at the protest, advisor of Rongmei Naga Luhphuwam Golmei Angan Kabui alleged that the abduction of 18 Naga civilians on May 13, of whom six are still reportedly missing, could lead to serious unrest in the State.

He claimed that although some women hostages were released, the whereabouts of the remaining six civilians are still unknown.

He warned that if the six civilians are not released soon, the protestors would intensify their agitation and formulate strategies for launching a larger movement.

He further stated that compensation in the form of ex-gratia cannot be a longterm solution to the ongoing crisis.

Meanwhile, president of the Women's Wing of Bishnupur Akoiba Nupi Lup Oinam Bina expressed shock over the denial by Kuki groups regarding the alleged abduction.

She claimed that statements from the released women hostages indicated that the civilians had been abducted by Kuki militants.

She further warned that failure to secure the release of the six civilians could trigger widespread protests across Manipur and urged the Government to take immediate and serious action over the matter.

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