Manipur Chief Minister Announces Transfer of Naga Abduction Probe to NIA

In a surprising turn of events, Manipur’s chief minister, Shri N. Biren Singh, told reporters on Thursday that the controversial abduction of a Naga youth will now be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The move, he said, is aimed at ensuring a swift and impartial inquiry that transcends state‑level politics.

"We have already written to the centre and requested that the NIA take charge of the case," the CM explained, his tone a mix of determination and relief. "The families have been waiting for answers for too long. It’s time we let a central agency handle the investigation so that there are no doubts about the process."

The abduction, which took place in late February in the Tamenglong district, sparked protests across the Naga‑predominant areas of the state. Witnesses claim that a group of armed men—allegedly linked to local security forces—dragged the 27‑year‑old student from his home in the early hours of the morning. He has been missing ever since, and his family has repeatedly appealed for a thorough probe.

Opposition leaders have welcomed the decision, calling it a “necessary step” toward restoring confidence in law‑enforcement agencies. "For years, we have been hearing about alleged misuse of power," said K.L. Palichak, a member of the legislative assembly. "Handing the case to the NIA shows that the state is finally willing to confront the issue head‑on."

Critics, however, warn that the shift could be a political ploy to deflect scrutiny from the state government. "We hope this isn’t just a gesture," remarked a spokesperson for a local civil‑rights group. "The NIA must act quickly and transparently, otherwise the community’s trust will erode further."

On the federal side, a senior NIA official confirmed receipt of the state’s request but declined to comment on timelines, citing procedural formalities. “We will mobilise a team as soon as the central government issues the formal orders,” the official said.

Meanwhile, the missing student’s family remains caught between hope and anxiety. Their youngest daughter, who lives nearby, clutched a photograph of the boy during the press conference and whispered, "We just want to know what happened to him."

As the case prepares to move from Manipur’s police files to the NIA’s docket, the region watches closely, hoping that justice—long delayed—might finally catch up.