Families of Detained Kuki-Zo Villagers in Manipur Seek Immediate Release of Relatives
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Imphal
- May 17, 2026
- 283
Families of 14 detained Kuki-Zo villagers from Manipur have appealed for the immediate release of their relatives, claiming that those in custody are innocent civilians with no links to violence or armed activities.
According to the families, the detainees include 13 residents from Taphou Kuki village and one resident from Hengbung village who have reportedly remained in custody since May 13.
Families Describe Emotional Trauma and Distress
In a signed public statement, the families said they were speaking “not with the language of politics, conflict or adversaries, but with the raw, heartfelt cry of mothers, fathers, wives and children.”
The families alleged that the detained villagers had no involvement in activism, armed groups or the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur and urged authorities to ensure their safe and immediate release.
The statement claimed that many of those in custody could be suffering from deteriorating health conditions, psychological trauma and emotional distress while remaining detained.
Family members said every passing hour without information about their relatives was causing “profound and agonising torment” to parents, children and spouses waiting for their return.
Appeal Highlights Peaceful Ties Between Kuki and Naga Communities
The appeal also highlighted the long-standing peaceful relationship between residents of Taphou Kuki, Hengbung and neighbouring Naga communities in Senapati district.
According to the families, the villages have shared generations of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and brotherhood despite the current ethnic tensions affecting Manipur.
The statement further stressed that the detained villagers were “not activists or combatants” and had “absolutely nothing to do with the wider conflict or political tensions surrounding the region.”
Families Call for Compassion Amid Ongoing Manipur Violence
Appealing for compassion and humanitarian consideration, the signatories said they were requesting the release of their relatives “with folded hands” and hoped peace and normalcy would soon return to Manipur.
The appeal comes amid continuing ethnic tensions, security operations and displacement across several districts of Manipur following months of violence between different communities in the state.
Several tribal bodies and civil society organisations have also been demanding the release of Kuki-Zo civilians allegedly detained during ongoing security crackdowns in conflict-affected areas of Manipur.