The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) deeply appreciates the goodwill of the United Naga Council (UNC) for facilitating the safe release of 14 Kuki hostages on 9 June 2026. This humanitarian gesture, carried out in the spirit of upholding ethics in conflict times, adherence to International Human Rights standards and protocols, trust in the assurance of the Union Government, and in response to the call and peace initiatives of the Churches is highly commendable and welcomed by all peace-loving communities across the country. It will surely pave the way for hope, peace, reconciliation, and mutual trust among the communities in the region.
In the same spirit, NCCI strongly appeals to Kuki civil society organizations to facilitate the immediate and safe release of the remaining six Naga hostages, including two pastors and four civilians. The lives and dignity of innocent civilians must be protected at all costs.
The NCCI urges the Union and State Governments to step up initiatives to secure the immediate and safe release of the six Naga hostages, and help reunite them with their families. The NCCI also demands a clear roadmap with a specific timeline from the Union and State Governments on taking responsibility to bring back peace and normalcy to the state of Manipur.
At this critical moment, a moment when truth, compassion, justice, and respect for human life must prevail over violence, fear, and division, NCCI reiterates its commitment to peace, justice, and the protection of all suffering families and communities, regardless of their identity or background.
The Council calls upon all concerned authorities, the Government, and all stakeholders to uphold the constitutional principles of law and justice, foster dialogue, and work collectively towards healing, reconciliation, and lasting peace in the state. NCCI also calls upon churches and people of goodwill to continue praying for the safe release of the remaining hostages, their families, and for peace in the region.
The NCCI is the national ecumenical expression of nationally networked historical, traditional and mainline Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India.
Rev. Asir Ebenezer
General Secretary, NCCI
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