Elderly Kuki man found dead in Manipur after abduction

A 71-year-old Kuki man was found dead in a Manipur forest on Sunday, just a day after he was taken from his field in the Kangpokpi district. His hands were tied behind his back when authorities found him.

Details of the Incident

The victim was Hemjang Haokip from Khunkho Kuki village near Leimakhong. He went missing on Saturday after his field hut was set on fire. Heavy rain on Saturday had kept most villagers away from their fields, and the incident only came to light that evening because Haokip often spent the night at his hut. Villagers searched until dark on Saturday without finding him.

Search and Discovery

Search operations resumed on Sunday after workers recovered Haokip's trousers, shirt, and sweater. Security forces brought in sniffer dogs to help trace him before locating his body in a nearby forest. Officials have not yet determined who is responsible for the death or the exact circumstances surrounding it.

Local Reactions

Local groups had reacted strongly to the initial abduction. The Kuki Youth Organisation demanded a safe return and action against the culprits. The Khunkho Kuki Village Authority condemned the event and gave a 24-hour ultimatum for his safe release, threatening democratic protests. The Committee on Tribal Unity also appealed for his release.

Village Clarifications

On Sunday, the Ariang Naga Village Authority issued a statement expressing support for Haokip's family. They stated that neither their village nor its residents were involved in the disappearance. They warned against unverified claims that could damage the peaceful ties between the two villages.

Context

This incident takes place against a background of renewed Kuki-Naga tensions in parts of the Kangpokpi district and nearby areas in Manipur. Local community groups often step in to demand safety and accountability when violence or missing persons cases disrupt the region.