Journalism in Manipur: Moving Beyond Selective Truths

THE June 8, 2026 seminar on “Media for Communal Harmony and Responsible Journalism” in Imphal addressed a truly vital topic, yet it serves as a painful reminder of the state of our local press. Organised by the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) and the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), the event saw media bodies gather to discuss peace and ethics. While discussing communal harmony is incredibly important, one cannot help but view this sudden urge for introspection with a heavy heart. For three years, since the devastating violence tore Manipur apart in May 2023, the silence and complicity from our capital’s newsrooms have been nothing short of deafening.

During the initial darkest stages of the conflict when arson and bloodshed consumed Imphal, the valley-based media seemed completely paralysed. Why was there such a collective reluctance to strongly criticise the violence? More importantly, why did our powerful media bodies, including the EGM and the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), fail to hold the government and the Chief Minister accountable for the breakdown of law and order? Instead of acting as independent watchdogs, many local dailies chose selective reporting. It is deeply distressing to see local electronic media running biased news and talk shows that explicitly target one community and blackened them as they liked. Is this ethical? One wonders why major media bodies failed to advise and correct these television channels. Rather than investigating the root causes of the tragedy, substantial energy was spent defensively countering the reports of national media, the Editors Guild of India (EGI), and human rights groups.

This compromised stance is further worsened by the institutional bias within the state’s own information machinery. The DIPR has consistently operated more like a public relations firm for the valley and the government, rather than an objective state organ. By focusing its press notes and resources almost exclusively on valley-based narratives, the directorate has routinely ignored the plight, perspectives, and ground realities of the outer districts. When a state’s information department chooses to look away from half of its territory during a humanitarian crisis, it does not just fail in its administrative duty; it actively deepens the emotional and geographical divisions that feed communal tension.

Given how crucial the topic of responsible journalism is today, this seminar must mark the end of compromised reporting. We genuinely hope that the editors, journalists, and media houses who attended will now find the courage to practice true, unbiased journalism that defends the truth, rather than suppressing it to fit a specific narrative. Real peace cannot be built on a foundation of selective amnesia or state-sponsored press releases. For Manipur to heal, our local media must boldly step out of the valley comfort zone, report strictly without fear or favour, and ensure that the voices of all affected communities across every single district are finally heard.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 11.06.2026

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United Naga Council: Press Statement

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KZVV Welcomes Release of 14 Hostages, Questions 'Selective Morality

Lamka, June 10, 2026: The Kuki-Zo Village Volunteers (KZVV), Western Command, has welcomed the release of 14 abducted Kuki-Zo civilians but asserted that innocent civilians should never have been taken hostage in the first place.

In a press statement issued on June 10, KZVV said the release of civilians was a positive development, but argued that freeing people who should not have been abducted cannot be regarded as an extraordinary act. The organisation stated that such actions represent the minimum moral obligation expected of any society.

The group also questioned what it described as the selective application of humanitarian principles, asking where calls for "war ethics" and human rights were when Kuki-Zo civilians were allegedly being killed in a series of incidents over recent months.

According to KZVV, between March and June 2026, twelve Kuki-Zo individuals, including an unborn child, lost their lives in incidents allegedly involving Naga assailants. The organisation said the victims included villagers, pastors, parents and other civilians whose deaths did not receive the same level of attention now being given to humanitarian concerns.

The statement recalled the March 12, 2026 killing of two Kuki-Zo villagers, Thangboimang Lunkim and Thenkhogin Baite, who were allegedly captured and murdered by cadres of the NSCN Eastern Flank while working on farming activities and repairing a community water supply line. KZVV noted that, in response, Kuki-Zo villagers detained 21 Tangkhul civilians but later released all of them unharmed within twelve hours, citing humanitarian considerations and efforts to prevent further escalation.

KZVV also highlighted the killing of three Christian ministers—Rev. V. Sithlhou, Pastor Paogoulen and Rev. Kaigoulen—on May 13, 2026, describing the incident as particularly painful for the community. The organisation stated that despite public anger following the killings, Kuki civil society groups ensured the safe passage of Naga travellers along National Highway-1 and facilitated the release of detainees.

The organisation maintained that justice and compassion should be applied equally to all communities and warned against what it termed "selective outrage" and "hypocrisy disguised as virtue."

KZVV further called on all concerned parties to acknowledge every innocent life lost, regardless of community affiliation, and to pursue justice without fear, favour or bias. The statement emphasized the need for equal concern for all victims and urged stakeholders to avoid selective responses to violence and humanitarian issues.

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Nemcha Kipgen: Condemnation and Appeal for Peace

 

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Manipur Police: Press Note

 

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UKC Thanks UNC for Releasing 14 Kuki Hostages

 "PRESS NOTE"

The 10th June 2026

Subject: Appreciation to UNC for the Release of 14 Kuki Hostages in Reciprocation of 21 Hostages Released by KIM Previously, Setting the Humanitarian Record Straight.

The United Kuki Council (UKC) places on record its appreciation to the United Naga Council (UNC) for the release of 14 Kuki-Zo hostages on 09 June 2026, after 27 days of detention. This step is welcomed as a gesture that aligns with the humanitarian path first demonstrated by the Kuki community.

On 12 March 2026, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) facilitated the unconditional release of 21 hostages, including 18 Tangkhul civilians and 3 persons from neutral communities, as a goodwill measure during prevailing tensions. Instead of reciprocation at that time, the mortal remains of Late Thenkhogin Baite and Late Thangboimang Lunkim were handed over by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL).

The UNC’s release of 14 Kuki hostages today is therefore seen as a reciprocation of KIM’s earlier humanitarian action of 12 March 2026. The UKC acknowledges this step, while reiterating that choosing peace should not be selective or delayed.

For the public record, the UKC presents the following documented details in Chart A in the above where 12  Kuki Persons Lost Lives and Chart B where 8 Kuki Villages/Localities were Attacked and burnt down. 

As documented above, 10 Kuki persons have been killed and 8 Kuki villages/localities have been attacked by Tangkhuls and ZUF(K). This sets the record of more deaths and several Kuki villages attacked and burnt at the hands of Kacha Nagas.

Therefore, the world community including UNC is appealed to accept the six hostages whether as it is, whether alive or dead and urged the concerned State and Central Authorities to deal as per laws of the country, keeping in mind Kukis have been continuing to defend themselves and never ever start or attack unless provoke to the degree of toleration.

“Humanity deserves appreciation. Selective memory does not”

Sd/-( L.T NGAIHTE)                                                                      
Vice-President, (Extl Affairs)       

                                                   
Sd/-(ALEX AIMOL)
Vice-President (Strtgy)

United Kuki Council (UKC)

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Manipur Police Recover Remains of Six Suspected Naga Captives

The mortal remains of six persons believed to be among those taken hostage from Leilon Vaiphei on May 13, 2026, were recovered on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, following an intensive search operation, according to Manipur Police.

In a statement posted on X, Manipur Police said the recovery was made after nearly 24 hours of sustained search efforts involving around 450 personnel drawn from the Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Assam Rifles. The operation was also supported by sniffer dogs and forensic expert teams.

The police stated that the deceased are believed to be among those abducted during the violence that erupted in the area on May 13. However, official identification of the bodies is yet to be completed.

Notably, Manipur Police did not disclose the exact location where the mortal remains were recovered. The absence of details regarding the recovery site has raised questions, particularly given the public interest surrounding the fate of those who were taken hostage.

Manipur Police said necessary legal formalities are being carried out and that an investigation into the incident is currently underway.

Further details are awaited.

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Manipur: A Ray of Hope as 14 Kuki Hostages Walk Free

THE safe release of 14 Kuki individuals on June 9, 2026, after nearly a month in captivity, brings a rare, much-needed sigh of relief to Manipur. The ordeal began on May 13 following a tragic ambush in Kangpokpi district that claimed the lives of three Kuki pastors, sparking a retaliatory cycle where both sides took up hostages; as per media reports the Nagas captured 28 Kukis, while the Kukis took 20 Nagas. An initial exchange on May 15 saw 28 people released: 14 from each community but left 14 Kuki individuals stranded in captivity. Thankfully, a dedicated goodwill mission led by church organisations and central, state, and tribal leaders finally secured their freedom at the Senapati district headquarters. Remarkably, one former detainee, Paotinkai Chongloi, shared that they were treated well, receiving the best available food, clothing, and blankets from the Naga village guards, proving that compassion can survive even during a crisis.

Yet, we cannot ignore the fragile and painful reality that frames this breakthrough. Even as these 14 men were being handed over safely to the police, reports emerged of fresh gunfire and the tragic killing of another Kuki man in Tamenglong district. Since mid-May 2026, the conflict has claimed at least 11 Kuki-Zo lives, including the pastors, and left eight villages reduced to ashes. The wounds of Manipur run incredibly deep, and every step forward seems shadowed by immediate setbacks. The cycle of retaliation, where innocent civilians become bargaining chips or targets, is a modern tragedy that only prolongs the heartbreak, tears, and bloodshed of a beautiful state.

This successful release, however, must be viewed as a crucial turning point rather than an isolated event. It proves that dialogue and community leadership can triumph over violence when given the chance. The United Naga Council (UNC) and local civil society groups showed that coordinated appeals could touch the conscience of those holding the triggers. By choosing to protect and return these remaining men unharmed, the Naga community has offered a vital gesture of reconciliation. It is a powerful reminder that taking civilians captive has no place in our world today, and that true strength lies in mercy and the courage to break the cycle of hate.

For Manipur to truly heal, this gesture must inspire a broader, collective movement toward peaceful coexistence. The state is a rich tapestry woven from many vibrant communities: Meitei, Naga, Kuki, Zomi, and Pangal, and none can thrive in isolation or through the destruction of another. True harmony cannot be enforced by security forces alone; it must be built from within by choosing understanding over suspicion. Let this moment of relief serve as a foundation for lasting peace. All communities must now come together to bind Manipur’s wounds, silence the guns, and ensure that the future belongs to cooperation, mutual respect, and shared hope.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 10.06.2026

Note: The individuals released were identified as Thangtinlen Chongloi, Paotinkai Chongloi, Lunsei Chongloi, Kaimang Chongloi, Hengunsei Chongloi, Luntinlal Chongloi, Tonggoulen Chongloi, Sehginlun Chongloi, Sehminhao Chongloi, Paogoulhang Chongloi, Haominlun Kipgen, Lamgoulen Kipgen, Thanglemang Chongloi, and Thangminlen Chongloi.

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KSO City Branches Express Gratitude for Safe Release of 14 Kuki Hostages

The Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) City Branches have expressed profound relief and gratitude following the safe and unconditional release of 14 Kuki individuals who had been held in custody by the Manipur Naga Village Guards.

In a statement issued on June 9, the KSO City Branches thanked various organisations, institutions and leaders whose appeals and interventions helped secure the release. Among those acknowledged were the Council of Baptist Churches in Northeast India (CBCNEI), Baptist World Alliance (BWA), Nagaland Joint Christian Forum, Assam Rifles, Naga Students' Federation (NSF), the Chief Ministers of Nagaland and Meghalaya, the Governments of Manipur and India, and Christian bodies across the country and Northeast India.

The organisation also expressed appreciation to the United Naga Council (UNC) for facilitating the final process that led to the hostages' safe release.

While welcoming the positive outcome, KSO urged all concerned parties to stop spreading misinformation and disinformation that could deepen mistrust and obstruct peace efforts. The organisation called on Kuki and Naga leaders to engage in sincere dialogue to find a lasting political solution to their disputes.

Emphasising reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, KSO City Branches pledged their full cooperation and support to Naga students living in various cities. The statement concluded with prayers for lasting peace and harmony among all communities in the region and expressed hope that such incidents would never recur.

 

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Manmasi: Manipur Eimi [Kuki] Dominated District Tribe Wise Population

KANGPOKPI [KANGGUI] DISTRICT 

Total Population - 2,20,857

1. Thadou-Kuki - 1,57,430

2. Vaiphei - 11,354

3. Kom - 2,642

4. Gangte - 1,648

5. Zou - 1,464

6. Chiru - 374

7. Hmar - 153

Non-Kuki

8. Nepali - 36,539

9. Tangkhul - 9,253

____________

CHURACHANDPUR DISTRICT 

Total Population - 2,54,787

1. Thadou-Kuki - 72,861

2. Paite - 52,684

3. Hmar - 43,255

4. Vaiphei - 27,347

5. Zou - 18,656

6. Gangte - 11,360

7. Simte - 6,484

8. Kom -5,906

9. Any Mizo [Lushai] - 5,134

10. Chiru - 1,134

11. Suhte - 787

12. Aimol - 466

Non-Kuki 

13. Kabui - 2,843

14. Tangkhul - 239

____________

CHANDEL DISTRICT 

Total Population - 144,182

1. Thadou-Kuki - 54,311

2. Anal - 25,843

3. Maring - 22,049

4. Zou - 4,878

5. Kom - 1,711

Non-Kuki 

1. Hindi - 4,204

2. Ao-Naga - 2,368

3. Others - 28,818

____________

TENGNOUPAL DISTRICT 

Total Population - 85,000

1. Thadou-Kuki - 30,966

2. Maring - 28,900

3. Zou - 1,216

4. Vaiphei - 1,139

Non-Kuki 

5. Hindi - 1,360

6. Tamil - 1,301

7. Tangkhul - 1301

8. Nepali - 774

9. Others - 6,826

___________

PHERZAWL DISTRICT 

Total Population - 40,000

1. Hmar - 15,238

2. Paite - 6,714

3. Simte - 3,810

4. Zou - 2,667

5. Gangte - 2,287

6. Vaiphei - 2,285

7. Thadou-Kuki - 1,524

Non-Kuki 

8. 5,476

Source: Manmasi/Mannaseh 2011 Census via W/A

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Nagaland CM Welcomes Release of 14 Kuki Hostages

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has welcomed the safe and humane release of the 14 Kuki hostages by the United Naga Council (UNC) and Naga civil society organisations. He said the release followed appeals by church bodies led by the Baptist World Alliance and efforts by Naga civil society groups. Rio described the gesture as a reflection of compassion, human dignity, and Christian values. He expressed hope that the development would help restore trust and promote lasting peace in Manipur. He also appealed for the safe release of the six missing Naga hostages through humanitarian means.

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Kuki CSO Ukhrul: Acknowledging Humanity in Full, Not in Fragments!

The Kuki CSO Working Committee, Ukhrul (WCKCSOs-Ukhrul), has welcomed the release of 14 Kuki-Zo hostages by the United Naga Council (UNC) after 27 days of detention, describing the development as a positive humanitarian gesture.

In a statement issued on 9 June 2026, titled “Acknowledging Humanity in Full, Not in Fragments!”, the committee said the widespread celebration following the hostages' release was heartening and reflected the values of humanity, restraint, and moral responsibility.

However, the organisation stressed that the Kuki-Zo community had earlier demonstrated a similar commitment to peace and humanitarian principles. It recalled that on March 12, 2026, the Kuki-Zos facilitated the release of 21 civilians, including 18 Tangkhuls and three individuals from neutral communities, despite prevailing tensions.

The committee claimed that the earlier humanitarian effort by Kuki-Zo civil society organisations received little public recognition, while attention was instead diverted from the killings of two Kuki-Zo individuals, identified as Thenkhogin Baite and Thangboimang Lunkim.

WCKCSOs-Ukhrul stated that humanitarian actions should be appreciated equally, regardless of which community initiates them. It also expressed appreciation to the UNC for what it described as reciprocating the humanitarian path first taken by the Kuki-Zo community.

Regarding the six missing Naga individuals, the committee noted that Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) had stated that it had no information about their whereabouts. It urged authorities not to interpret the absence of information as irresponsibility and called on the government to make every effort to ascertain the whereabouts and well-being of the missing persons.

Concluding its statement, the committee emphasized that “humanity deserves appreciation” and called for fairness and consistency in acknowledging humanitarian efforts across communities.

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UNC Announces Release of 14 Kuki hostages

On June 9, 2026, the United Naga Council announced the release of 14 Kuki detainees held by the Naga Village Guard. Citing appeals from churches, Amit Shah’s assurance to Nagaland’s CM, and requests from Manipur and Meghalaya’s CM, the UNC approved the release after stakeholder consultations. The detainees were handed to Senapati authorities on June 7, 2026, for family reunion.

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KIM Condemns Killing of Haokhogin Lhouvum

 

GIVE DESCRIPTION 150 CHA: LAMKA, June 9, 2026: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has strongly condemned the killing of a Kuki-Zo villager, identified as Haogin Lhouvum, son of Khupkam and a resident of Lasan village in Tamenglong district, who was shot dead at around 1:00 PM on Tuesday.

In a press statement issued by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary, Information and Publicity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, on June 9, KIM described the incident as a “cold-blooded murder” and alleged that it reflects serious failures in the state’s security and administrative systems. 

The organisation said the killing raises concerns over the continued vulnerability of Kuki-Zo villages in Tamenglong district and questioned the authorities’ ability to ensure the safety of residents.

KIM called on the Government of Manipur, the district administration, and security agencies to explain why Kuki-Zo villages remain exposed to such attacks despite repeated appeals from civil society organisations. 

It alleged that Kuki-Zo habitations have not been provided the same level of protection as other communities.

The organisation also expressed concern over what it described as a continuing pattern of violence against Kuki-Zo civilians.

It questioned why certain Tangkhul-led Naga elements allegedly continue to target innocent Kuki villagers, stating that such acts deepen divisions, undermine peace, and erode trust between neighbouring communities.

According to KIM, the killing highlights the consequences of unequal security arrangements and administrative indifference. 

The organisation stressed that repeated security failures resulting in the loss of innocent lives and property cannot be allowed to continue.

KIM further stated that Kuki villages deserve equal protection under the law and urged authorities to be held accountable for recurring security lapses before more lives are lost.

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Zomi Council in DC thak vaidawnna nei

Lamka, June 9, 2026: Tuni 11:30 am in Zomi Council Hqtrs, Lamka makaite'n Ccpur dist. adia Deputy Commissioner thak,  Pu Krishna Kumar IAS vaidawn na Mini Secretariat, Tuibuang ah va nei uhi.

 Media & Publicity 

 Zomi Council Hqtrs

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KOHUR Condemns Killing of Kuki-Zo Civilian in Manipur

Raises Alarm Over Continued Violence in Manipur

Tengnoupal, June 9, 2026: The Kuki Organization for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) on Tuesday strongly condemned the killing of Shri Haokhogin Lhouvum, a Kuki-Zo civilian from Tamenglong district, alleging that the incident forms part of an ongoing campaign of targeted violence against the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur.

In a press release issued by its Department of Information and Publicity, KOHUR stated that Haokhogin Lhouvum, 45, was killed on June 9 while travelling to his farm. The organisation alleged that armed cadres belonging to NSCN-IM and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF/ZUF-K) were responsible for the attack.

According to the statement, the deceased was the son of Shri Khupkam Lhouvum and Smt. Lhingjanei and a resident of Lasan Village in the Twilang Area along IT Road in Tamenglong district. KOHUR described him as an ordinary and peaceful family man whose death has left behind a grieving wife and young son.

The human rights organisation further claimed that the incident was not isolated but part of a broader pattern of attacks targeting unarmed Kuki-Zo civilians and villages in the hill districts of Manipur since March 2026.

KOHUR documented several killings over the past months, including two civilians killed in the Thowai/Litan area of Ukhrul district on March 11, two more in Mullam under Litan Police Station on April 24, and three church leaders killed in Kangchup Geljang, Kangpokpi district, on May 13 during what the organisation described as a peace and reconciliation mission. Another three civilians were reportedly killed at Loibol Khullen in Kangpokpi district on June 5. The organisation said a total of 11 Kuki-Zo civilians had been killed in these incidents.

The organisation also highlighted reports of village burnings and destruction of property. According to KOHUR, around 16 houses were gutted at Gampal village and 12 more at nearby Haijang in Kamjong district in April 2026. It further reported that Lanchah village in Kamjong district was burned on May 2, while seven houses and two vehicles were destroyed in Loibol Khullen, Kangpokpi district, on June 5.

KOHUR stated that the information had been compiled from affected communities and public reports. The organisation alleged that armed cadres linked to NSCN-IM and ZUF/ZUF-K were behind the attacks and criticised investigating agencies for failing to arrest or prosecute any perpetrators so far.

Describing the attacks as grave violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, KOHUR called for immediate intervention from authorities. The organisation demanded an independent and time-bound investigation, preferably by the National Investigation Agency where appropriate, into the killing of Haokhogin Lhouvum and other reported incidents.

It also urged the deployment of adequate security forces to protect vulnerable Kuki-Zo villages and civilians, particularly farmers and those engaged in peaceful livelihood activities. Additionally, the organisation sought compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement for affected families and residents of villages that had allegedly been burned and destroyed.

KOHUR appealed to the Government of India, the Government of Manipur, the National Human Rights Commission, and other concerned authorities to intervene urgently and stop what it termed an ongoing campaign of targeted violence against the Kuki-Zo people.

The organisation concluded by expressing solidarity with bereaved families and reaffirming its commitment to documenting incidents and pursuing legal and constitutional avenues to seek justice and accountability.

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MLA Kimneo Hangshing: Appreciation Note

 

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KOHUR condemns the Killing of Haokhogin Lhouvum

KOHUR has strongly condemned the killing of Shri Haokhogin Lhouvum, a 45-year-old Kuki-Zo civilian from Lasan Village, Tamenglong District, who was allegedly attacked by armed cadres on 9 June 2026 while travelling to his farm. In a press release issued on 9 June 2026, the organisation described the incident as part of an ongoing campaign of targeted violence against the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur. The statement also highlighted several documented killings and village burnings since March 2026, calling for urgent intervention, independent investigation, protection of civilians, and justice for affected families. KOHUR appealed to the Government of India, the Government of Manipur, and human rights authorities to take immediate action and ensure accountability for the violence.

 

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Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills ALLEGEs Obstruction of Victim’s Funeral Route

Kangpokpi, June 9, 2026: Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills (KI-SH) has expressed deep concern over reports that the mortal remains of Haogin Lhouvum, who was allegedly killed by NSCN-IM Kamson group members on June 9, were not allowed to pass through Makui village while being transported for his final rites.

In a press release issued by Paojalal Hangshing, Assistant Secretary, Information and Publicity, Kuki Inpi Sadar Hills on Tuesday, KI-SH described the reported obstruction as a serious humanitarian concern, stating that denying passage to a deceased person's body causes additional suffering to grieving families and undermines respect for the dead.

The organisation emphasized that humanitarian values should be upheld regardless of political differences, ethnic tensions, or ongoing conflicts. It stated that compassion for bereaved families and respect for the deceased must never be compromised.

KI-SH noted that the Kuki-Zo community has consistently upheld humanitarian principles even during periods of conflict. As an example, it cited an earlier incident in which the mortal remains of a pastor were reportedly allowed safe passage through Kangpokpi district without disturbance before being taken to Daili village for burial.

The organisation said the reported denial of passage to Haogin Lhouvum’s body stands in contrast to such humanitarian practices. It called for clarification regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident and urged all concerned parties to ensure that humanitarian considerations are respected at all times.

“Even in situations of conflict, the dignity of the dead and the rights of grieving families must be protected,” the statement said, adding that humanitarian values should not become casualties of political or ethnic disputes.

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Kuki-Zo Council Thanks All for Release of 14 Hostages

Lamka, June 9, 2026: The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has expressed heartfelt gratitude to all individuals, organizations, and authorities involved in securing the safe release of 14 Kuki-Zo hostages.

In a press release issued on Monday, the council stated that the successful outcome was made possible through coordinated efforts and the dedication of various stakeholders who worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those held captive.

The KZC conveyed special appreciation to the Government of Manipur, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Chief Ministers of Nagaland and Meghalaya for their support and intervention during the process.

The council also thanked the Director General of Police (DGP), Assam Rifles, and other security agencies for their commitment and cooperation throughout the rescue efforts.

In addition, the KZC acknowledged the role of Christian leaders from Nagaland and Manipur, along with the United Naga Council (UNC) and several Naga civil society organizations, for their prayers, peace-building initiatives, and constructive engagement that contributed to the peaceful resolution.

Reaffirming its gratitude, the council said the collective efforts brought immense relief and joy to the families of the hostages and the wider Kuki-Zo community.

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Manipur: KYKL Cadre Nabbed Near Indo-Myanmar Border

On 08 June 2026, security forces arrested an active cadre of KYKL, one Khoirakpam James Singh (28) of Awang Sekmai Khunou Imphal West district from Indo-Myanmar BP 76 area under Moreh-PS, Tengnoupal district, Manipur.

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Manipur: Arms, Explosives and Radios Recovered in Chandel Raid

On June 9, 2026, security forces recovered a cache of arms, explosives, and communication equipment from the general area of Aigejang under Chakpikarong Police Station in Chandel district, Manipur.

The seized items included one .22 rifle, one locally made 9 mm pistol with a magazine, five locally made country-made machine guns (CMGs), four locally made lathod guns, approximately 1.2 kg of explosive substance, and three Baofeng radio sets.

The recovery was made during a security operation in the area. Further investigation is underway.

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Manipur Police: Press Note

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Hope in Manipur as 14 Kuki Hostages Are Released

On June 9, 2026, fourteen Kuki individuals were formally released and handed over by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Senapati District, Manipur, to the Senapati Police and the District Administration.

Following their release, the authorities completed all necessary formalities, including identity verification and medical examinations. Security arrangements were put in place, and the route was secured to ensure their safe transportation to Taphou Kuki Village.

The individuals were subsequently handed over to the Chief of Taphou Kuki Village through an official handing-over and taking-over memorandum.

The entire process was carried out peacefully and smoothly, with the cooperation and coordination of all stakeholders involved.

The 14 released Kuki individuals were identified as:

1. Thangtinlen Chongloi
2. Paotinkai Chongloi
3. Lunsei Chongloi
4. Kaimang Chongloi
5. Hengunsei Chongloi
6. Luntinlal Chongloi
7. Tonggoulen Chongloi
8. Sehginlun Chongloi
9. Sehminhao Chongloi
10. Paogoulhang Chongloi
11. Haominlun Kipgen
12. Lamgoulen Kipgen
13. Thanglemang Chongloi
14. Thangminlen Chongloi

💚🙏🕊🙏💚

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EULOGY TO OUR FALLEN HEROES: Mr Haokhogin Lhouvum

EULOGY TO OUR FALLEN HEROES

Mr. Haokhogin Lhouvum

(45 years, S/o Mr. Khupkam Lhouvum and Mrs. Lhingjanei)

> Lasan Village, Twilang Area, IT Road, Tamenglong District, Manipur

Cause of Death:

Incinerated to death by NSCN-IM and ZUF (K) militants on 9th June 2026 (Tuesday)

Mr. Haokhogin Lhouvum, a resident of Lasan village, Twilang area, IT Road was brutally murdered by NSCN-IM and ZUF(K) militants today while on his way to his farm. An innocent man, an unarmed civilian, a family man on his way to make his living, waylaid by morally bankrupt murderers who waged their dishonorable war on the innocent. He left behind a grieving wife and a young son. 

May his soul rest in peace; may the perpetrators face God's wrath and judgement; may the family find justice.

----------------------

KSO Media & Documentation Cell

09.06.2026 (Tuesday)

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Democracy Behind Closed Doors: The SIR Reality

THE wheels of Indian democracy are turning once again as the Election Commission launches the third phase of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Across Odisha, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Manipur, booth-level officers are tasked with going door-to-door to ensure the electoral rolls are flawless before the June 28 deadline. On paper, the goal is noble and precise: to ensure no eligible citizen is left out, and no ineligible name remains. It is an ambitious attempt to update the records for over 36 crore voters across 16 states and three union territories. Yet, while administrative machinery moves smoothly in peaceful regions like Odisha or Sikkim, applying the same rigid blueprint to a state fractured by conflict reveals a profound and troubling disconnect.

In Manipur, the idea of a standard “house-to-house” visit feels less like a bureaucratic exercise and more like a cruel joke. Since the devastating violence erupted in May 2023, thousands of homes have been reduced to ashes, and entire villages have vanished into wasteland. Hundreds of thousands of people have been uprooted, living in makeshift camps or fleeing the state entirely. How exactly are government officials supposed to knock on doors that no longer exist? Both the central and state governments have shown a shocking lack of accountability, failing to maintain an accurate, transparent record of exactly how many people have been displaced or where they have fled.

This administrative failure highlights a deeper, more painful negligence from both the central leadership in New Delhi and the state government. By pretending that a standard enumeration drive can function normally in a war zone, the authorities are effectively turning a blind eye to internally displaced persons. These survivors, who have already lost their homes, livelihoods, and sense of safety, now face the very real threat of losing their political identity. Forcing traumatized, displaced citizens to navigate complex paperwork or find an internet connection in a relief camp just to keep their right to vote is completely unfair. It represents a total breakdown of state responsibility, treating citizens as statistical data rather than suffering human beings.

A democracy is only as strong as its commitment to its most vulnerable citizens. If the government can spend vast resources on security forces and official exercises, it must find a way to actively seek out and register every single displaced person from Manipur, rather than letting ethnic divisions dictate who gets counted. True inclusivity cannot be achieved by sitting in comfortable offices and issuing deadlines while avoiding the ground reality. Until the state acknowledges the reality on the ground, stops hiding behind paperwork, and takes deliberate, compassionate steps to count those who have lost everything, this intensive revision remains an incomplete, hollow promise.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 09.06.2026

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14 Kuki Captives Released Unharmed, Handed to Police

Senapati, June 9, 2026: The 14 Kuki individuals who were reportedly held captive by Naga groups have been released unharmed.

According to available information, the 14 persons were handed over to the Senapati Police Station by the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Naga People's Organisation on Tuesday, 09 June 2026.

The release comes amid heightened tensions in parts of the district. Authorities have taken custody of the released individuals, and further details regarding the circumstances of their captivity and release are awaited.

The individuals released were identified as Thangtinlen Chongloi, Paotinkai Chongloi, Lunsei Chongloi, Kaimang Chongloi, Hengunsei Chongloi, Luntinlal Chongloi, Tonggoulen Chongloi, Sehginlun Chongloi, Sehminhao Chongloi, Paogoulhang Chongloi, Haominlun Kipgen, Lamgoulen Kipgen, Thanglemang Chongloi, and Thangminlen Chongloi.

Following their release, one of the former detainees, Paotinkai Chongloi, stated that they had spent 27 days under the custody of Naga village guards.

“We have been well treated,” he said, adding that they were provided with food, clothing, blankets, and other essential necessities throughout their detention.

According to him, the detainees received the best food available in the area and were cared for during their stay before being released and handed over to the authorities.

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11 Kuki-Zo Killed, 8 Villages Burnt Since Mid-May

Since mid-May 2026, a total of 11 Kuki-Zo individuals have reportedly been killed in clashes with Naga groups in Manipur. 

The fatalities include:

• Litan village – 2
• Mulam village – 2
• Pastors – 3
• Loibol village – 3
• IT Road village – 1

In addition, eight Kuki-Zo villages have reportedly been burnt:
Gampal, Lanchah, Litan, Loibol, Mulam (Ukhrul), K. Songlun, Kharam Vaiphei, and Haijang.

Reports also indicate that 14 Kuki hostages remain in captivity.

Figures as of 09 June 2026, 04:31 PM

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