Dimapur: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio addresses the gathering during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Tenyimi Union Dimapur, in Dimapur on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. (Photo: IANS)
Dimapur, June 9 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday welcomed the safe and humane release of Kuki hostages by the United Naga Council (UNC) and Naga civil society organisations, while making a fervent appeal for the reciprocal release of six Naga hostages still in captivity.
In a post on his X account, the CM said the Kuki hostages were freed in response to an appeal by Church bodies led by the Baptist World Alliance.
“We once again appeal for the safe release of the 6 Naga hostages in a reciprocal & humanitarian manner so that they return to their loved ones,” he said.
The Chief Minister said he had held several interactions and deliberations with representatives of Naga civil society groups over the past weeks in collective efforts to resolve the impasse on humanitarian grounds and in the true spirit of Christian values. He had also formally appealed for the safe release of the hostages.
He expressed hope that the development would contribute to restoring trust, healing divisions and paving the way for lasting peace in Manipur.
“We hope this gesture will help pave the way for trust, understanding and dialogue as we strive for genuine peace, reconciliation and harmony,” he said.
Terming the release as a reflection of the Naga people's respect for human life and commitment to human rights, Dr Rio said the gesture reaffirmed the belief that “even amidst conflict, humanity must prevail.”
He called upon all communities to move forward together in peace, equality and shared progress, adding that “dialogue, compassion and faith remain our most powerful instruments for reconciliation and peace.”
