Imphal: The Manipur Congress on Wednesday accused the BJP-led governments at both the Centre and in the state of remaining “silent spectators” while several civilians were abducted by armed groups in the violence-hit state.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event marking the 62nd death anniversary of India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, state Congress president Okram Ibobi Singh alleged that “there is no rule of law in this tiny state”.

“What immediate steps have been taken by the state and the central governments when the civilians were abducted? We strongly condemn it and demand that those held hostage be rescued immediately,” Singh said.

He further questioned why both governments had remained “silent spectators”, asking whether there was “any hidden agenda”.

More than 38 people were abducted and held hostage by armed groups in Manipur’s Kangpokpi and Senapati districts on 13 May, hours after three church leaders were killed in an ambush.

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According to officials, 31 people have since been released, including 12 Naga women and 16 members of the Kuki community. However, six Naga men remain missing and their whereabouts are still unknown.

Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body representing Kuki tribes in the state, claimed that 14 people from the community continued to be held hostage by Naga groups.

Manipur Director General of Police Rajiv Singh said on Monday that negotiations were underway and security operations were continuing to trace the missing individuals.

Security forces also apprehended four suspects from Kangpokpi district on Monday in connection with the abduction of the six Naga civilians.

Singh also criticised the BJP, alleging that the party remained focused on elections throughout the year and was “not concerned about the future of the country”.

Referring to Nehru, he said the former prime minister had worked to maintain strong diplomatic ties with all nations.