Militants in Manipur has demanded the release of its jailed leader, Mark Thangmang Haokip, in exchange for two abducted youths, further escalating tensions in the conflict-ridden state.
The two youths, Oinam Thoithoi and Thokchom Thoithoiba, were reportedly abducted on Friday in Kangpokpi district, which is dominated by the Kuki ethnic group.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh confirmed the incident during a press conference on Monday, stating that the state government, in collaboration with central authorities, is working to secure the release of the hostages.
"It is a very unfortunate incident. Of the three youths, one was released while the two others remain in the hands of militants. The Centre and the state government are in constant touch to ensure the safe release of the two youths. We are engaging in talks now," said Singh.
The three youths, including Johnson Singh, who was later rescued by the army, had taken a wrong turn while travelling to Kangpokpi for a recruitment exam.
The trio, all residents of Thoubal district, were allegedly abducted by armed men soon after arriving in the Kuki-dominated area. Johnson Singh was freed shortly after the abduction, while Thoithoi and Thoithoiba remain captives.
The Manipur Chief Minister said the director general of police had personally visited the area to negotiate with the kidnappers. However, Singh asserted that the state would not meet the militants’ demands, which included the release of Haokip.
"They have made some demands, but the government is trying to secure the release of the two youths unconditionally," Singh said. He reiterated that the government remains committed to bringing the situation under control without yielding to militant pressure.
Mark Thangmang Haokip's role
Mark Thangmang Haokip, the leader of the separatist organisation known as the Government of People’s Democratic Republic of Kukiland, was arrested in New Delhi in May 2022.
He currently faces charges of conspiring to wage war against the Indian state and is lodged in Sajiwa Jail, Imphal East district.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is handling Haokip’s case, and a chargesheet has already been filed against him.
Haokip, a native of Molnom village in Churachandpur district, is accused of advocating separatism for the Kuki people.
Amid growing concerns for the hostages' safety, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president, along with a sitting MLA, made an emotional appeal for the safe release of the youths.
They emphasised the need for peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which have often been at odds.
Meanwhile, security forces are intensifying efforts to locate the missing youths.
The chief minister reiterated that his administration would not cave into the militants' demands, underscoring the government’s firm stance against negotiating with insurgents.
As tensions simmer, the state government has sought additional assistance from central authorities to ensure a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
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