JTC imposes total shutdown
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 01 2026: The Joint Tribes' Council (JTC), Manipur has imposed a 'total emergency shutdown' with immediate effect across Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei, Zeme region against the earlier decision of United Naga Council (UNC) to release 14 Kuki hostages while the whereabouts of six Naga abducted civilians remain unknown.

JTC, in a statement, said that the shutdown will remain in force until all six abducted Naga civilians are returned unharmed and justice is delivered.

As the shutdown took effect, the Council, headquartered in Tamenglong, declared that all business activities along the National Highway are suspended.

It also stated that all educational institutions, Government and private offices, and banking services would remain closed.

Further, it said that no public transport, taxis, or private vehicles would be allowed to operate during the shutdown period, adding that public gatherings and movement are strictly prohibited until further notice.

Demanding the immediate location and safe, unconditional release of the six Naga civilians abducted on May 13, 2026, they urged the relevant authorities to investigate the alleged collusion between residents of Leilon Vaiphei and illegal Kuki militants.

They also sought accountability from the Manipur Government, accusing it of allegedly prioritizing the release of Kuki hostages over the lives of the Naga civilians.

The group asserted that the Kuki hostages should not be released until the Naga civilians are freed.

The JTC appealed to the public to support their efforts until the Government took immediate action for the safe release of the six abducted Naga civilians.

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