Amnesty International has called for the immediate and unconditional release of civilians held by armed groups in Manipur, India, amid ongoing ethnic violence. This call for action comes as negotiations over the release of remaining captives appear stalled due to persistent tensions between ethnic groups in the region. The rights group emphasized that under international law, the taking of hostages and abduction of civilians are prohibited acts that could be considered crimes under international legal standards.
This development follows reports that armed factions from the Kuki and Naga communities abducted over 48 civilians in Manipur’s Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. The incident occurred amidst an ambush that resulted in the deaths of three church leaders who were part of peace dialogues between the two communities. While some captives have been released, a number remain in captivity. According to Kuki Inpi Manipur, 14 Kuki civilians are still detained by Naga groups. The United Naga Council had initially proposed a broader release, but that plan was canceled, citing the prevailing sentiments within their community and the ongoing detention of Naga civilians by Kuki groups as major obstacles.
Conrad K. Sangma, National People’s Party President, has urged both factions to release the captives immediately and unconditionally. Such an action, he suggested, could contribute significantly to reconciliation efforts and lasting peace in the fraught region.
Manipur has seen recurring violence and displacement since 2023, which have been fueled by deep-seated ethnic tensions. More than 60,000 residents have been displaced, and at least 200 deaths have been reported. Homes, businesses, and religious institutions have suffered widespread destruction during the outbreaks of violence. The ongoing crisis has drawn criticism from both domestic and international rights organizations, who blame the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government and state authorities for failing to provide adequate protection to civilians.
The government of India imposed president’s rule in Manipur in February 2025, due to prolonged political instability and security issues. This rule ended in February 2026 when Yumnam Khemchand Singh became the chief minister, yet incidents of violence persist. The complexities of ethnic strife in the region continue to hinder security efforts and accountability for abuses committed during the conflict (JURIST).
As the situation in Manipur remains tense, the international community and human rights organizations watch closely, advocating for peaceful resolutions and adherence to international law.