The Centre has extended the deadline for a three-member Commission of Inquiry into Manipur’s ethnic violence, pushing the final report submission to November 20, 2026. Formed on June 4, 2023, the panel is led by former Supreme Court judge Balbir Singh Chauhan and investigates the sequence of events behind the violence that erupted on May 3, 2023. The conflict has continued for over three years, with more than 260 deaths reported so far.
Thirty-one Kuki and Naga civilians abducted earlier this week in Manipur’s Kangpokpi and Senapati districts were released on Friday, officials said. The kidnapping followed an armed ambush on May 13 at Zero Point between Kotlen and Kotzim Inter Village Road, which left three dead and four injured. Authorities said civilians from multiple communities were detained near Leilon Vaiphei and Saparmeina villages and in Senapati. Police say investigations continue, and efforts are ongoing to free those still held, with at least six Naga men untraceable.
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More than 38 Kuki and Naga civilians are reportedly held captive in different parts of Manipur as fresh ethnic violence escalates. The United Naga Council claims 20 people are being held hostage in Leilon Veiphei in Senapati district, alleging abductors came from the same area. Manipur’s home minister says the state has informed the Union Home Ministry via the Intelligence Bureau and is working with civil society and political leaders. Separately, three Kuki individuals were killed in an ambush in Kangpokpi, with the probe slated for NIA or another central agency.
Manipur marked three years since ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023 with mass protests across multiple districts. Residents say the day is “an anniversary nobody wants to observe,” staging rallies instead of celebrations. Demonstrators demanded the implementation of NRC, resettlement of displaced people, and government accountability to restore peace and safety for affected communities.
Ethnic violence in Manipur has spread into Naga-dominated areas, with a deadly clash reported in Ukhrul district on Friday. The incident left three people dead and several others injured. Security forces have ramped up operations to restore order and apprehend those behind the violence, but officials say the situation remains tense as they try to prevent further escalation.
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