Two church groups have offered to help end tensions between the Kukis and Nagas in Manipur, a state hit by ethnic conflicts. The region is currently facing a “total shutdown” and an “economic blockade,” disrupting daily life.
A team of 10 church leaders from the Council for Baptist Churches in North East India (CBCNEI) and the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) met with Manipur’s Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on May 18, 2026. The meeting included Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho.
The church leaders proposed sending two teams to ease tensions. One team will visit Kuki-majority Kangpokpi district, while the other will go to Naga-majority Senapati district. This follows a violent incident where gunmen killed three Thadou church leaders and took hostages, including members from both communities.
The Chief Minister praised the churches’ efforts to calm the situation. The CBCNEI spokesperson said their team would meet with families of the slain leaders in Kangpokpi before traveling to Senapati to discuss peace with Naga leaders.
On May 15, some hostages were released, but more remain captive. Both communities are demanding the release of all hostages to restore peace.
Meanwhile, blocked highways due to the shutdown have stranded hundreds of trucks carrying goods in Manipur’s Imphal Valley and Senapati district. Drivers report shortages of food and water and are seeking safe passage.
The Kuki Inpi Manipur called for a shutdown to protest the killings and government inaction. The United Naga Council responded with an economic blockade, demanding the release of their hostages.
Government officials stated that security forces are searching for missing individuals and conducting operations in affected districts.