Imphal: The Joint Tribes’ Council (JTC) Manipur announced on Saturday that it will not claim the bodies of six slain Naga hostages until its charter of demands is fulfilled.
Press Conference Details
Addressing a press conference in Imphal, JTC convenor Merachao Inka alleged that following the abduction on May 13, 14 Naga captives and 14 Kuki captives were exchanged. The Naga side released 14 Kuki captives unharmed as a gesture of goodwill. However, instead of releasing the remaining six Naga captives, the Kuki National Front (P) allegedly released their decomposed bodies, he claimed.
Allegations and Accusations
Describing the killings as brutal and inhuman, Inka accused members of the Leilon Vaiphei Women Society, the village chief of Leilon Vaiphei, Manipur Police personnel identified as Thangilian, and KNF-P cadres of involvement in the abduction and murder of the six victims.
Demands of JTC
The JTC demanded immediate arrest of all those involved in the crime, the declaration of KNF-P as a terrorist organisation, the termination of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the outfit, and the resignation of deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen on moral grounds.
Civil Society Meeting
Meanwhile, Naga and Meitei civil society organisations (CSOs) met on Saturday and resolved to collectively identify themselves as “Yelhoumee Phurup” (indigenous people), affirming their commitment to remain united beyond tribal and ethnic identities, and to pursue the charter of demands collectively.
The JTC stated that it would continue its agitation and would not receive the bodies of the six victims until all its demands are met, regardless of any pressure from any quarter.
