Nagaland CM Seeks Release of Abducted Naga Persons

Nagaland Chief Minister has informed the United Naga Council about the state government's efforts to secure the release of six abducted Naga persons in Manipur. He said he had spoken with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the Union Home Secretary, and Intelligence Bureau officials, urging immediate action. The Centre has assured that the matter is being treated with the highest priority and that all necessary measures are underway. The Chief Minister also appealed for peace, restraint, and cooperation from all sides to ensure the safe recovery of the abducted persons. Additionally, he urged the United Naga Council to facilitate the release of 14 Kuki individuals reportedly being held by Naga volunteers.

Zou Holy Bible Released After 19 Years of Translation

Lamka, 31 May 2026: In a historic and joyful occasion, the Zou Holy Bible (NKJV) was officially released by Rt. Rev. Khupdoukhen, Bishop of the Manipur Evangelical Lutheran Church (MELC) at the MELC Headquarters Church in Zomi Colony on Sunday afternoon, 31 May 2026. He also led the dedication prayer during the programme.

The event was attended by leaders from the Zou community, including UZO and its branches, the Singngat A/C MLA, church leaders, and many Bible lovers who gathered with great enthusiasm.

The Holy Bible was translated by Rev. Haozalian, the chief translator, along with his team from the Zou Holy Bible Lovers’ Committee (ZHBLC). The team spent more than 19 years carefully translating the New King James Version (NKJV) from English into the Zou dialect, working word by word and sentence by sentence. The Bible was published by the Trinitarian Bible Society, London.

This is the fifth Holy Bible translated into the Zou dialect and the first to be published outside India.

During the programme, a souvenir magazine prepared by the Zou Holy Bible Lovers’ Committee was also released by Rev. Dr. Hangpi Manlun of the Zou Presbyterian Church Synod (ZPCS). The magazine highlights the journey of the Bible translation work and other important activities of the committee.

~ Zogam Today

Why Manipur Must Choose Peaceful Co-Existence

THE fragile fabric of peace in Manipur has been stretched to its absolute limits once again. In a deeply worrying cycle of mutual suspicion, the Naga community recently claimed that six of their people are being held captive by Kuki groups, while the Kukis counter-claimed that fourteen of their own members are missing under Naga custody. This growing distrust erupted into open unrest on 29 May at Shangkai village in Ukhrul district, where a peaceful Kuki protest turned violent after security forces intervened. What should have been an opportunity for dialogue instead became a chaotic clash, reminding us how quickly anger can take over when trust is completely broken.

Tragically, the day’s violence claimed the life of an innocent truck driver from West Bengal, a working-class man caught in a conflict that was not his own. Adding fuel to the fire, the Manipur Police issued an unusually direct press note on the same day, pointing the finger squarely at Kuki militants for the deadly ambush. In a region where official statements are usually carefully guarded to avoid worsening ethnic divides, this sudden shift to public blame marks a dangerous departure. The situation grew even more critical the very next day on 30 May, when the Kuki-Zo village of Kharam Vaiphei was burnt down. This rapid spread of unrest shows that when authorities abandon neutrality, it never brings justice; it simply hardens hearts and deepens the sense of victimhood on all sides.

Amidst this rising heat, the Kuki-Zo community held a nationwide peaceful protest rally on 30 May. They demanded justice for three Kuki pastors killed in an ambush on 13 May, and sought the immediate release of the fourteen Kukis allegedly held hostage by the Nagas. However, a vital glimmer of hope emerged from the leadership. The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Joint Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organisations announced that, following intensive discussions with the government on 29 and 30 May, they acknowledge the positive outcomes and assurances given to safeguard their people. As a gesture of goodwill and cooperation to maintain law and order, KIM temporarily suspended the total shutdown across Kuki-Zo inhabited areas.

This suspension is a highly welcome move and a mature gesture from the Kuki leadership. It shows that even in moments of deep grief and anger, the path of dialogue and restraint remains possible. The only meaningful and long-lasting solution for Manipur lies in peaceful co-existence and mutual harmony. Leaders from both the Naga and Kuki communities must step back from the brink, look beyond past grievances, and sit down to talk. Peace is not a sign of weakness; it is a brave choice that requires far more courage than picking up a weapon. For the sake of innocent lives and a better tomorrow, it is time to choose understanding over hostility. Peace is the only road left that leads home. 

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 31.05.2026

Manipur Police: Press Note

 

Choosing Peace Over Revenge

THE heavy air of Manipur has fractured once more, this time dragging the Naga and Kuki communities into a dangerous spiral of suspicion. At the heart of the latest standoff is a bitter arithmetic of human lives: Nagas claim six of their people are being held captive by Kukis, whilst Kukis counter that fourteen of their own are being held hostage by Nagas. This toxic gridlock erupted into open chaos at Shangkai village in Ukhrul district, where a peaceful Kuki protest turned ugly. As security forces intervened with tear gas to clear the vital Imphal-Ukhrul highway, the situation deteriorated rapidly into an exchange of live gunfire between communities, proving yet again how easily a spark can light the dry wood of ethnic anxiety.

Tragically, the heaviest price for this instability is always paid by the innocent. Amidst the gunfire, a non-local truck driver transporting essential rice supplies was hit by a bullet and killed. One cannot help but feel a deep sense of grief and sorrow for his family, left to moun a father, son, or husband who had absolutely no stake in this conflict. His death leaves us with a burning question: where are the state and central security forces when they are truly needed? Their failure to prevent the escalation or to secure a vital lifeline like National Highway 202 exposes the complete collapse of the Manipur state government, which continues to look on helplessly as lawlessness takes root in yet another district.

 

This madness must not be allowed to widen into a new communal front. It is high time both communities came together for direct, unconditional negotiations. Leadership means rising above bitterness; both sides must release their alleged captives immediately, without waiting for the other to act first. Crucially, the individuals involved in these criminal abductions must be booked and brought to justice under the law as isolated wrongdoers. We must stop blaming entire ethnic groups for the criminal actions of a few armed men. To tar a whole community with the same brush is a lazy, dangerous path that only ensures the cycle of vengeance continues.

 

True peace requires the courage to talk, not the malice to take hostages. We are reminded of the words of Psalm 34:14: “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it”.  Peace is not a passive wish; it is an active pursuit that requires laying down arms and picking up dialogue. True communal harmony cannot exist without mutual trust, and our long-term co-existence depends entirely on treating our neighbours’ security as our own. We must remember that our distinct cultures are meant to enrich this land together, not tear it apart. The state government must immediately secure the highways, but the deeper healing belongs to the people. Kuki and Naga leaders must step forward right now, clear the roads, free the captives, and choose the path of negotiation before more innocent blood stains the soil.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 30.05.2026

Disptach of BLOs for the Enumeration Phase of SIR 2026

 

Inquiry Panel Visits Torbung Relief Camp, Hears Victims

Lamka, May 30, 2026 (DIO): A panel of the Commission of Inquiry (Manipur Violence) 2023, headed by Chairperson Justice B. S. Chauhan, visited the Prefabricated Relief Camp at Torbung in Churachandpur district on Saturday to assess the situation of people affected by the ethnic violence.

The delegation included Commission members, Secretary to the Commission Shri Mohan Lal Meena, IAS, and Commissioner (Home) Shri Ashok Kumar, IAS. They were accompanied by district officials, including Deputy Commissioner Dharun Kumar S, Additional Deputy Commissioner Seiminthang Lenthang, SDO Churachandpur Anunay Anand, SDO Kangvai Th. Mangminthang Gangte, and SDO Tuibong Jangminlen Lupho.

During the visit, the Commission interacted with inmates of the relief camp and listened to their experiences of displacement, hardships, and concerns arising from the violence. Camp residents also shared their grievances, living conditions, and expectations from the government and administration.

The visit is part of the Commission's ongoing efforts to gather first-hand information and evidence related to the Manipur violence, while ensuring that the inquiry reflects the experiences and challenges faced by affected communities on the ground.

KIM Suspends Shutdown Across Kuki-Zo Areas Temporarily

KUKI INPI MANIPUR

(Apex body of the Kuki Tribes)

Administrative Centre: Lamka - 795128

manipurkuki.inpi@gmail.com

PRESS STATEMENT

KIM Secretariat, the 30th May, 2026

04/KIM/PR/22-38: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and Joint Kuki-Zo Civil Society Organisations, including all Tribe Inpis and student bodies, after consecutive rounds of discussions and consultations held with the Government on 29th and 30th May 2026, acknowledge the positive outcomes and assurances that emerged during the meetings concerning the prevailing situation affecting the Kuki-Zo people.

In view of the developments and as a gesture of goodwill, cooperation, and commitment to maintaining law and order, Kuki Inpi Manipur hereby announces that the total shutdown imposed across Kuki-Zo-inhabited districts shall remain temporarily suspended with immediate effect.

This decision has been taken in good faith and in the larger public interest to facilitate administrative processes and enable the Government to act responsibly and decisively in delivering justice and addressing the legitimate concerns of the Kuki-Zo people. The lifting of the shutdown should not, under any circumstances, be misconstrued as a weakening of our position, compromise of our rights, or dilution of our demands. It is, rather, a responsible step taken with maturity and sincerity in expectation of corresponding action from the Government.

Kuki Inpi Manipur wishes to categorically state that the Kuki-Zo people have exercised immense restraint, patience, and cooperation despite continued suffering and injustices. The community remains hopeful and positive that the Government will reciprocate this gesture with tangible action, sincerity, and accountability. Mutual trust can only be sustained through mutual commitment.

At the same time, Kuki Inpi Manipur makes it unequivocally clear that any failure, delay, negligence, or lack of visible action on the part of the Government during this period of temporary relaxation will compel the Kuki-Zo people to intensify the shutdown and democratic agitations further. In such an eventuality, the Government alone shall bear full responsibility for the consequences arising out of its inaction or failure to uphold justice and protect the rights and interests of the people.

Kuki Inpi Manipur also extends its appreciation to the Kuki-Zo public for their unwavering unity, discipline, and steadfast support throughout the course of the shutdown and public movement. The collective struggle and sacrifices of the people shall continue until justice, security, and rightful guarantees are ensured.

(JANGHAOLUN HAOKIP)

Secretary, Information & Publicity

Kuki Inpi Manipur

Manipur Police: Nitish Kumar | Kuki Militants

 

Manipur Public Service Results 2026

Jnana Prabodhini: Manipur Fellowship Program 2026-27

Opportunity to Create Impact:
Manipur Fellowship Program 2026-27
Jnana Prabodhini is inviting applications for its 1-year Manipur Fellowship Program. If you or someone you know is passionate about community development, this is for you.

● Location/Induction: Field engagement in Manipur, with an induction program at Pune.

● Fellows are expected to commit 20 hrs/week towards this program, that is only 4 hours a day.
● For Induction, travel allowance of up to INR 8000 will be provided by Jnana Prabodhini for travel to and from Pune. (Fellows need to furnish travel tickets to claim travel allowance)
● Food and Stay arrangements in Pune will be taken care of, by Jnana Prabodhini, during the 15-day induction program

 Last Date to Apply: 31st May 2026
Apply now - https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSdMg5cmBkB.../viewform...

Or
 Contact: coordinator.manipur@jnanaprabodhini.org |  8999203169 (Tushar) / 7875042195 (Shreejit)

ICON FELLOWSHIP 2026-28

 

Hello,

Exciting news! The ICON Fellowship 2026-2028 is now open for applications. This 16-month immersive, residential program empowers young changemakers (ages 21-35) across Northeast India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh who are passionate about climate justice, sustainability, and community action.

Fellows will gain hands-on experience in habitat restoration, conservation, and climate action, learning from Indigenous communities and scientific experts. They’ll receive international exposure and mentorship, develop conservation projects, and contribute to meaningful environmental outcomes.

What Fellows will gain:

Personal growth and peer learning

Deep listening and trust-building with communities

Understanding grassroots realities and environmental challenges

Collaborative, hands-on experience in conservation

If you know someone who shares this passion, please spread the word and encourage them to apply!

To know more, visit our website: https://ibti.co.in/

Application link: https://zfrmz.in/97McfmOTbOF

Aizawl in 1896: A Glimpse into the Past

This rare photograph takes us back to Aizawl in 1896, when the town was still a small hill settlement nestled among the rugged mountains of present-day Mizoram. The landscape is quiet and untouched, with winding footpaths connecting scattered bamboo-and-thatch houses built along the slopes.

In the foreground, three men stand outside a traditional Mizo house, pausing as if to welcome the photographer. There are no motor roads, vehicles, or modern buildings, only narrow tracks carved into the hills by generations of villagers. The surrounding hills are covered with trees, reflecting the close relationship between the Mizo people and the natural world.

The image tells a story of a simpler time, when life moved at a slower pace and communities depended on farming, hard work, and strong village ties. 

Today, Aizawl is a bustling state capital, but this photograph preserves the memory of its humble beginnings and the resilience of its people.

📸 Photo Credit: The Camera As Witness: A Social History of Mizoram, Northeast India by Willem van Schendel and Joy L. K. Pachuau.

AIFF announces 2026-27 Season Dates & Player Registration Periods

 📢 The All India ⚽Football Federation has announced the season dates and player registration periods for the 2026-27 season for both men’s and women’s competitions.

Manipur Police: Press Note

 

ANSAM Gives 4-Day Ultimatum to Govt

The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Government of Manipur over the alleged abduction of six Liangmai Naga hostages, including two pastors, by Kuki militant groups under the SoO agreement.

ANSAM expressed concern over the government’s failure to take decisive action and warned of possible boycott and political steps if the hostages are not released within the stipulated time. The association also demanded immediate action against those involved in recent killings and called for the abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact.

 

ITLF Calls for ‘Rally for Justice’ on May 30

 The Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) has announced a “Rally for Justice” to be held on May 30 in response to the continued suffering and insecurity faced by the Kuki-Zo community. The rally follows the recent tragic ambush that claimed the lives of three church leaders, including Rev. V. Sithou.

The forum urged authorities to ensure justice for the victims, punish those responsible, and guarantee the safety of innocent civilians. The rally will begin from Sielmat and Koite at 11 AM, followed by the main programme at the Wall of Remembrance at 12 noon.

Thoubal: Special Electoral Roll Revision to Begin from May 30

Thoubal, May 29, 2026 (DIO): A media briefing on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Roll 2026 was held today at the Conference Hall of the DC Office, Thoubal.

Deputy Commissioner Thoubal, who is also the District Election Officer (DEO), Smt. Yumnam Robita, informed the media that the Special Intensive Revision will begin from May 30 in all six Assembly Constituencies of the district.

She stated that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will carry out house-to-house visits from May 30 till June 28 as part of the revision process. The draft electoral roll will be published on July 5. Before the publication of the draft roll, BLOs will submit all the required forms collected during the verification process.

Appealing to the people of the district, the DEO urged all eligible citizens to actively participate in the electoral roll revision so that no eligible voter is left out.

She further informed that after the publication of the draft electoral roll, claims and objections related to inclusion, deletion, and correction of names will continue till August 4.

The DEO also informed that training programmes for BLOs and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) had already been conducted earlier.

A dedicated Helpdesk has also been set up at Room No. 29 of the District Election Officer’s Office, Thoubal, to assist the public. The Helpdesk can be contacted at 9233937501.

Kuki Liberation Army (KLA-L): 10th Rising Day | Pu Letkholun

 

Tuni May 29 hi au um talou Pu Letkholun Kuki te Nam sepai Galhang melmaten akichat pen KLA/KLO C-in-C athinikho Kum 19 lhin na ahitai tulai Nam gallai tah a hi ama tabang ho hi ngaichat um pen chu ahiu ve hitichan ana dam le kuki te hi hitin minoise kichang pon te.
~ WAP

Manipur: Job Vacancies in Art & Culture, Social Welfare

 

Manipur: Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Roll, 2026

 

Kuki CSO Ukhrul: State Terror Unleashed on Peaceful Kuki Protest at Shangkai

 

Remembering the Tagore of the Zou

THE loss of an icon often leaves a silence that words struggle to fill, and the passing of Pu Thongpao Taithul on 27 May 2026 has left just such a void in the hearts of the Zou community. Known affectionately as the ‘Rabindranath Tagore of the Zou People’, Thongpao was a true polymath whose life was a beautiful tapestry of music, literature, education, and deep faith. Born in 1935 as the eldest of seven siblings in Lungsai village, his journey was defined not by the obstacles he faced, but by how magnificently he overcame them. At just fourteen, he miraculously survived a leftover World War II shell explosion, an accident that claimed several of his teeth and resulted in the amputation of his right hand. Yet, where others might have surrendered to despair, he chose courage. With unwavering determination and the support of his loved ones, he moved forward, proving that a physical limitation could never confine a resilient human spirit.

Thongpao’s contributions to the cultural and spiritual identity of his people are immeasurable. As a gifted songwriter, lyricist, and singer, he composed anthems for MYCA, UZO, and ZSP, while also working to promote the Zoulai script alongside its creator, Pu M. Siahzathang. His professional life as a teacher, beginning in 1966 in the remote, hard-to-reach village of Phaikholum, was marked by the same quiet dedication that later saw him retire as a respected Headmaster in 2003. However, it was perhaps his role in the Zomi Inter-Confessional Bible Translation Committee between 1975 and 1983 that truly captured his legendary devotion. So driven was he to see the Holy Bible translated into his mother tongue that he famously vowed never to shave his beard until the project was complete. When the Zou Holy Bible was finally published in 1983, it stood as a monument to collective faith and linguistic unity, achieved in no small part by Thongpao’s tireless resolve.

On 28 May 2026, his funeral service was held at his native home in Zoveng, where a grateful community gathered in deep respect and honour to pay their last tributes to a man who spoke little but achieved so much. Beyond his public achievements, Thongpao was a God-fearing, exemplary father who, alongside his wife Niangsuanching, raised five children and blessed the world with eleven grandchildren. His family remains a living testament to his values, carrying forward a legacy of warmth, hospitality, and selfless social work. To look at his life is to see a masterclass in how to live with purpose, honesty, and a profound love for one’s roots.

While the Zou community mourns a monumental loss, Thongpao’s journey should serve as a powerful beacon of encouragement for us all. His life teaches us that our grandest achievements are built on daily acts of resilience, hard work, and faith. He showed that adversity does not define our destination, and that a single dedicated individual can uplift an entire culture. As we bid farewell to a man whose like may never be seen again, let us not just mourn his absence, but actively emulate his exemplary life. By choosing action over empty words and service over self, we can ensure that the light Pu Thongpao Taithul ignited continues to guide generations to come.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 29.05.2026