The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Manipur government, demanding the safe release and handover of six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted earlier this month. The student body warned that failure to secure their release within the deadline could lead to a boycott of the state government and calls for Naga legislators to withdraw their support from the ruling administration.
Speaking at a press conference in Senapati, ANSAM president Th. Angteshang Maring said the organisation would stand by the decisions of the United Naga Council (UNC) and continue pressing for justice. He stated that the six missing persons include two pastors and remain untraced despite repeated appeals to authorities.
According to Naga organisations, 18 Liangmai Naga villagers were allegedly abducted on May 13 amid escalating tensions in parts of Manipur. Following negotiations involving civil society groups and security agencies, 14 hostages were released, but six individuals reportedly remain in captivity.
ANSAM accused the state government of failing to take effective action despite public demonstrations, memorandums, and repeated demands from Naga groups. The organisation said the continued absence of the six civilians has created fear and insecurity among Naga communities across the state.
The student body also demanded action against those responsible for several recent killings in the region and renewed its call for the immediate withdrawal of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement between the Centre and certain Kuki militant groups. ANSAM alleged that the agreement has failed to prevent violence and abductions.
Meanwhile, protests have continued in different parts of Manipur. Naga organisations and women’s groups have organised rallies demanding the immediate release of the missing civilians and stronger government intervention. Demonstrators carried placards calling for justice, protection of civilians, and urgent action by authorities.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh recently said that four suspects connected to the abduction case had been arrested and assured that efforts were underway to trace the remaining hostages. However, Naga groups have maintained pressure on the government, insisting that concrete results must be delivered within the stipulated deadline.
The latest ultimatum highlights the continuing tensions in Manipur, where security concerns and inter-community disputes remain major challenges for the state administration.
