In an emotional appeal marked by grief and determination, hundreds of residents of Taphou Kuki Village yesterday staged a peaceful protest demanding the immediate and unconditional release of 14 villagers who have allegedly remained in captivity in Senapati district for nearly two weeks.
Dressed in white attire symbolising peace, sorrow and humanity, the protesters gathered in solemn unity as prayers and emotional appeals filled the demonstration site. Women, elderly villagers and children held placards urging authorities and concerned groups to ensure the safe return of their loved ones.
The protest reflected mounting anguish among families who claimed that despite the prolonged captivity of innocent civilians, there has been little visible progress from the authorities toward securing their release.
Speaking during the protest, Hatpi Chongloi, a relative of one of the hostages, said the continued detention of the villagers has pushed families into deep emotional distress. “Fourteen innocent villagers from Taphou Kuki Village are still being held captive in Senapati. Every passing day is becoming unbearable for the families. We do not know what condition they are in. Our hearts are breaking,” she said emotionally.
She alleged that both the Kangpokpi and Senapati district administrations have failed to take meaningful responsibility or initiate effective measures to secure the release of the hostages even after nearly two weeks.
According to family members, the hostages are believed to be facing severe emotional, physical and financial hardship while in captivity. They further stated that many of those detained are the sole breadwinners of their families, leaving wives, children and elderly parents in fear, uncertainty and economic distress.
“What crime have these innocent villagers committed to deserve such suffering? Their families are living in endless trauma. Every day without their return feels like another day of silent punishment for the entire village,” Hatpi said.
The protesters also appealed to both the Central and Manipur governments to intervene immediately and ensure the unconditional and safe release of all 14 Kuki-Zo villagers.
“We urge the Central and State Governments to act before the situation worsens further. These are innocent civilians. They must be released safely and without any condition,” she appealed.
Villagers asserted that the peaceful agitation would continue until all the hostages are safely reunited with their families.
“Unless they are safely released, we will keep knocking on the doors of the Government. We will not stop pleading for the lives of our people,” Hatpi declared.
