Manipur tensions flare after bodies of two missing Kuki youths found in Senapati

Guwahati: The bodies of two Kuki youths, who went missing from Taphou Kuki village in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on October 28, were found on Sunday in a hilly stretch in adjoining Senapati by security forces.

In a post on X, Manipur police said, "Following the incident of disappearance of two persons from Taphou Kuki village on 28th October 2026, multiple search operations were launched by joint teams of Manipur Police, CRPF and Assam Rifles. In continuation of these operations, an extensive joint search operation was conducted in the general area east of NH-2, along the SP Road. During the course of the thorough search operation, the joint teams recovered two dead bodies from the area. The necessary legal formalities are being carried out."

Tensions escalated in the Kangpokpi district after the discovery of the two bodies as protesters alleged that the youths were abducted and killed by "Naga militants." Protesters have refused to receive the bodies of the two victims.