KHALVONTAWI - Voice of the Voiceless from Northeast India

UNC Announces Economic Blockade Over Hostage Crisis

5/17/2026 11:35:00 PM No comments

OFFICE OF THE
WORKING COMMITTEE, UNITED NAGA COUNCIL
Tahamzam (Senapati) H.Q. – 795106

Public Statement

May 17, 2026

The United Naga Council had submitted an ultimatum to the Government of Manipur on May 14, 2026 for the immediate and safe release of 20 Naga hostages held by the Kuki militants groups at Leilon Vaiphei village and Sapermaina Kuki Village within 24 hours. On the morning of May 15, 2026 fourteen of the Naga hostages were released but leaving the fate of the remaining six which include 2 pastors. The State Government had requested for more time (upto 2.00 PM of May 16, 2026) to trace and release the remaining hostages. The deadline was again deferred twice to facilitate the government for successful completion of the search operations and eventual safe release of the hostages. However, even after these deferments, the 6 Naga innocent civilians are still being held hostage by the Kuki militants as reports have been received that the state machineries have not been able to trace and rescue them even after well past the deadlines.

Given the situation, we are constrained to launch an Inter-District Economic Blockade along the National Highways in the Naga areas in Manipur with immediate effect until the safe rescue and release of the Naga hostages are duly carried out.

Media Cell
Working Committee, UNC

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Man Dies After Falling From Cliff in Tamenglong

5/17/2026 11:24:00 PM No comments

A man reportedly died after falling from a cliff in Tamenglong on May 16, 2026. Police personnel arrived at the scene and took stock of the situation. According to sources, the man was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.

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CM Reviews Imphal-Saikul Road Works, Meets Residents

5/17/2026 11:17:00 PM No comments

Imphal, May 17, 2026: Chief Minister of Manipur, Shri Yumnam Khemchand Singh, on Saturday evening inspected the ongoing improvement work of the Imphal-Saikul road and reviewed the progress of the project.

It may be recalled that the Chief Minister had personally flagged off the road improvement project on March 14 this year.

During the inspection, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of Manipur, Chongtham Bishwachandra, briefed the Chief Minister on the present status and progress of the construction work.

The Chief Minister directed the concerned officials to ensure timely completion of the project while maintaining proper quality and standards.

On his way to the inspection site, Shri Yumnam Khemchand Singh received a warm welcome from local clubs and residents of Pangei and Khundrakpam areas. Residents also highlighted various grievances and hardships faced by the people, particularly the need for better basic amenities in the locality.

Interacting with the residents, the Chief Minister thanked them for the warm reception and assured that the government would look into all possible developmental measures for the welfare of the public.

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