United Naga Council: Basis of the Release of Detainees | Hostages ~ KHALVONTAWI - Voice of the Voiceless from Northeast India

United Naga Council: Basis of the Release of Detainees | Hostages

THE United Naga Council (UNC) on Monday issued a public statement outlining the basis for the release of detainees and reaffirming its commitment to justice, peace, and the protection of Naga rights.

In the statement issued from Tahamzam (Senapati Headquarters), the UNC said the Naga people have long upheld Christian values, human rights, and ethical principles. The council noted that appeals from the Baptist community, Naga churches, tribes, and civil society organisations played a significant role in seeking a peaceful resolution to the issue.

The UNC referred to assurances reportedly given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio that the Ministry of Home Affairs would trace the abducted Naga persons, identify those responsible for the abductions, and ensure that the law takes its course.

According to the statement, the Government of Manipur sought the release of detained individuals with the assurance that efforts would be intensified to establish the status of the missing hostages and to bring the perpetrators to justice. The council also cited commitments to enforce the SoO ground rules and take action against those found responsible.

The UNC further noted that appeals by national and regional leaders, including the President of the Naga People’s Front, for the unconditional release of hostages were based on humanitarian considerations.

Following consultations with Naga Village Guards and other stakeholders, the UNC said it decided to release all 14 Kuki detainees who had been under the custody of the Naga Village Guard–Northern Command. The detainees were subsequently released.

However, the council emphasized that six Naga hostages remain missing and demanded their immediate release. It stated that the UNC would continue to pursue justice until all those responsible are held accountable and the missing persons are safely recovered.

The statement concluded by asserting that the UNC would closely monitor the implementation of the assurances given by both the Union Home Ministry and the Manipur Government. The council reiterated its commitment to pursuing the Naga people's demands through peaceful and democratic means while seeking the restoration of peace and justice in the region.