Kohima, June 9: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday welcomed the safe and humane release of Kuki hostages by the United Naga Council and Naga civil society organisations, following appeals made by church bodies led by the Baptist World Alliance.

The Chief Minister said he had held several discussions with representatives of Naga civil society groups over the past weeks in efforts to resolve the situation on humanitarian grounds.

He noted that he had also formally appealed for the safe release of the hostages, emphasizing compassion, human dignity, and the values of the Naga people. He described the development as a reflection of respect for human life, commitment to human rights, and the belief that humanity must prevail even during conflict.

Expressing hope for lasting peace in Manipur, the Chief Minister said the move could help restore trust, heal divisions, and promote harmony among communities. He stressed the importance of dialogue, compassion, and mutual understanding in building reconciliation and peace.

He also renewed his appeal for the safe release of six Naga hostages in a reciprocal and humanitarian manner, saying their return would help strengthen trust and support ongoing efforts toward peace, reconciliation, and harmony among communities.