More than 2,000 people gathered at Jalukie Town Square in Nagaland’s Peren district on Friday to demand the safe and unconditional release of six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted by Kuki militants in Manipur earlier this month.
The public rally was organised by the Zeliangrong Baudi Nagaland (ZBN) and witnessed participation from members of various Naga tribes, community organisations, student bodies and civil society groups. Participants carried placards bearing messages such as “Law and justice must prevail”, “Release our brothers now” and “Government must act now”, calling for urgent intervention by the authorities.
A memorandum addressed to the Governor of Nagaland was submitted through the Deputy Commissioner of Peren, urging immediate action to secure the release of the six civilians.
Addressing the gathering, ZBN president K. Francis Zeliang said the community remained united in its demand for justice and the safe return of the abducted individuals. He said innocent civilians should not be used as “bargaining chips” in any conflict and described their continued captivity as a violation of human rights and basic humanity.
Zeliang also criticised what he termed the inaction of both the Manipur government and the Centre. He said that despite President’s Rule in Manipur and assurances from the Ministry of Home Affairs, armed groups continued to operate without fear.
Nagaland Zeliang People’s Organisation (NZPO) president Zandi Domta, while delivering a solidarity message, said 18 Naga villagers from Konsakhul were allegedly abducted at Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13. He noted that 12 of them had subsequently been released, while six remained in captivity.
Demanding their immediate and unconditional release, Domta called for legal action against those responsible. He warned that prolonged inaction could undermine public confidence in the rule of law and further escalate tensions in the region.
Several other community leaders also addressed the rally. Zeliangrong Baudi (Assam, Manipur and Nagaland) general secretary Tadambo emphasised the need for unity among the Zeliangrong people, while Zeliang Youth Organisation Nagaland president Ngautube urged the community to respond with patience, wisdom and solidarity.
Zeme Council Nagaland president Asiakpe Ernest Sephe condemned the alleged abduction, stating that the victims were ordinary civilians returning from a wedding. He said the incident had caused immense pain and trauma to their families and described it as unjustifiable and inhumane.
A family member of one of the abducted persons, Pastor Kenpibou, thanked the gathering for its support and solidarity during the difficult period.
Solidarity messages were also delivered by representatives of the Liangmai Council Nagaland, Rongmei Council Nagaland, Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation Nagaland, Zeliang Women Organisation, Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland and Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland.
The programme was chaired by ZBN vice president Adaube Hiekha Hau. Rev. Dr. Mongzeung Mpom, pastor of Jalukie Town Local Baptist Church, offered the invocation, while the vote of thanks was delivered by ZBN speaker Nikodim. The programme concluded with a benediction by Pastor James Gonmei of SDAC.
