Manipur's Deputy Chief Ministers, Losii Diko (representing the Naga community) and Nemcha Kipgen (representing the Kuki-Zo community), are pivotal in negotiations to resolve a hostage crisis triggered by escalating ethnic tensions. At least 20 individuals remain abducted, following violent clashes that have seen three Kuki-Zo church leaders killed. The crisis began amid retaliatory abductions between the two communities, with 14 Kuki-Zo and 6 Naga individuals still in captivity. Despite recent hostage exchanges that freed 28 people, efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives have not yet succeeded. Diko has called for an end to the abductions, urging both communities to engage in dialogue rather than violence. The situation poses a significant challenge for the newly formed BJP-led government, which aims to maintain ethnic balance among the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki-Zo communities. Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam is also involved in discussions with church leaders to facilitate the safe return of the abducted individuals and prevent further escalation of violence.