Sit-in by hundreds in Kangpokpi on May 22 condemns May 13 ambush of three church leaders, presses for hostages’ freedom and political dialogue to end Manipur crisis
Edited by Elvish Haokip, Kukiland Express Desk
Kanggui: May 23, 2026
Hundreds of Kuki women converged in Kangpokpi district on Friday for a peaceful sit-in, demanding justice for three church leaders killed in a May 13 ambush and the release of fourteen civilians allegedly held hostage in Senapati district. The demonstration marked a sharp escalation in public outcry over targeted violence and prolonged insecurity.
The protest, coordinated by the Committee on Tribal Unity on behalf of Kuki Inpi Manipur, drew participants from across Kangpokpi’s villages. Holding placards and chanting for accountability, the women denounced what they called a failure of authorities to protect civilians as ethnic strife continues to grip Manipur.
Speakers described the killing of the three pastors as a brutal act that struck at the heart of the Kuki community. The victims, they said, were widely respected for their humanitarian work and role in fostering peace within villages. Their deaths, protestors argued, symbolize the wider vulnerability faced by the community over the past three years.
Many participants turned emotional while addressing the crowd, stating that the ambush was more than an attack on individuals. They called it an assault on the community’s faith and dignity, warning that silence from investigating agencies was deepening mistrust and fear among residents.
The gathering issued a firm call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those behind the killings. Leaders at the sit-in cautioned that delays in delivering justice would only widen the divide between the people and the administration, fueling further unrest in the hill districts.
Alongside justice for the slain pastors, the women pressed for the urgent release of fourteen Kuki civilians they allege are being held hostage in Senapati. They described the detentions as a grave humanitarian issue and urged both the government and civil bodies to intervene to ensure their safe return.
The demonstration ended without incident, but organizers vowed to sustain democratic protests until their demands are met. They also appealed to New Delhi to initiate political dialogue, stressing that only a time-bound resolution can address the security and humanitarian crisis confronting the Kuki people.
