Amid the hostage crisis in Manipur, the authorities are hopeful that mutual discussions could open the gates for the release of the two boys abducted by militants in Kangpokpi district three days ago, said intelligence sources.
“They have been wrongfully detained against the release of one inmate booked in a National Investigation Agency (NIA) case. No operation has been planned by forces as it could risk lives. Things are moving and we are positive,” they said.
The detentions happened on September 27 when they were coming from Thoubal district to Keithelmanbi district where recruitments were to happen on September 28.
“There are two Keithelmanbis in Manipur and these boys entered the wrong Keithelmanbi which is Kuki-dominated. One of them, N Johnson Singh, was released, but the other two — Th Thoithoiba Singh and O Thoithoi — were taken into detention. We are in touch with village heads for the release. The release of any prisoner is not possible as this involves judicial scrutiny,” sources said.
This is a community matter and secret movement of forces is not possible, they added. “This has happened in the past, too, when people from both sides entered by mistake and were killed. But such killings have stopped now. Although there has been no breakthrough in talks, we are positive things will work out soon,” they said.
Kukis are demanding the release of Mark Thangmang Haokip, accused of waging war against India to establish an independent ‘Government of People’s Democratic Republic of Kukiland’. Haokip is currently in the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said the director general of police has been asked to secure the release of the two youths.
“It is a very unfortunate incident. Of the three youths, one was released while the two others are still in the hands of militants. The Centre and the state government are in touch to ensure the safe release of the two youths. We are engaging in talks now,” Singh said.
“The DGP has gone to the place to have talks (with abductors). We believe that there will be a positive outcome. They have made some demands… The government is trying to release the two youths unconditionally,” Singh said.
On Sunday, a video surfaced featuring the two missing youths appealing to the CM for their release.
With PTI Inputs
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