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The ongoing violence in Manipur has taken a sinister turn with the kidnapping of two men, Oinam Thoithoi Singh and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh, from the Meitei community. The incident has sparked widespread concern and prompted Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to call for their immediate rescue. A video of the two men pleading for their lives and appealing to the Chief Minister to fulfill the kidnappers' demands has gone viral on social media, highlighting the desperate situation.
The Chief Minister has condemned the abduction as a “heinous act” and assured the public that his government is actively working to secure the safe release of the victims. However, the kidnappers' demands, which reportedly include the release of Mark Thangmang Haokip, a militant arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for waging war against India and attempting to establish an “independent Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Kukiland”, have further escalated tensions.
The incident has added another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in Manipur. The state has been engulfed in ethnic violence for months, with clashes between the Meitei community and various Kuki tribes leading to the deaths of over 220 people and the displacement of thousands. The violence has its roots in deep-seated historical grievances, including land rights, resource allocation, and demands for autonomy.
The kidnapping of the two men is a grim reminder of the escalating violence and the growing influence of militant groups in Manipur. The government’s response to this incident will be crucial in determining the future course of events and in restoring peace and security in the state. The authorities must prioritize the safe release of the kidnapped individuals and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. This incident also underscores the need for long-term solutions to address the underlying causes of the ethnic conflict, including dialogue, reconciliation, and addressing the grievances of all communities.
Source: 2 Men Seek Help In Viral Video, Manipur Chief Minister Says Kidnapped By "Kuki Militants"