Several Christian organisations in Manipur have condemned the killing of church leaders and appealed for the immediate release of abducted civilians and pastors.
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Imphal, May 19: Several Christian organisations in Manipur on Tuesday condemned the killing of church leaders and appealed for the immediate and unconditional release of civilians and pastors abducted during the recent violence in Kangpokpi district.
In separate statements issued on May 19, the All-Manipur Christian Organization (AMCO), Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI), and Liangmai Baptist Churches Association (LBCA) expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation and urged authorities and armed groups to prevent further escalation. The AMCO strongly condemned the abduction of civilians, including pastors from Konsakhul village, allegedly carried out at Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13 following the ambush and killing of three leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association.
According to the organisation, the abduction of Naga civilians without “verification and proofs” regarding their alleged involvement in the earlier ambush incident triggered retaliatory kidnappings on the same day, worsening tensions in the state. The organisation said the whereabouts of several abducted persons remain unknown, causing “deep concern, fear, anguish and grief” among family members, churches and the general public.
In its statement, AMCO described the targeting of innocent civilians and religious leaders as “a grave violation of humanity, justice, and the values of peaceful coexistence.”
“Such barbarism and senseless act only deepens anger, hatred, mistrust and enmity among the communities,” the organisation stated, adding that the violence threatens the fragile peace in Manipur, which has remained affected by ethnic conflict since May 2023.
The organisation appealed to all groups allegedly holding captives to immediately release all hostages, including both Kuki and Naga civilians, on humanitarian grounds. According to AMCO, human lives “must never be used as instruments of violence, intimidation, or retaliation.” The organisation also criticised both the Central and State governments and accused law enforcement agencies of negligence and bias in maintaining law and order in the conflict-hit state.
AMCO urged political leaders, civil society organisations, church leaders and security agencies to make all possible efforts to secure the safe return of all abducted persons without delay to prevent further communal tension and violence. The organisation further appealed for an end to attacks on innocent civilians and religious leaders and called for restoration of peace in the state.
Meanwhile, the Thadou Baptist Association India strongly condemned what it described as the “cold-blooded murder” of its senior leaders during an ambush on May 13 near Saheibung Peak between Kotlen and Kotzim villages in Kangpokpi district.
According to TBAI, its leaders were returning from a United Baptist Churches Council meeting held at Churachandpur between May 11 and May 13 when their vehicles were attacked. The organisation stated that Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, President of TBAI, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum, Finance Secretary of TBAI, and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou, Superintendent Pastor, were killed in the attack.
TBAI also stated that Rev. SM Haopu, Executive Secretary of TBAI, Rev. Kaikhothang Singsit, Pastor of TBAI Centre Church Kangpokpi, and two drivers sustained injuries, while Rev. Hekai Simte escaped unharmed. The association alleged that the vehicles clearly displayed TBAI name plates and described the attack as a “grave assault on peace and religious freedom.”
Demanding justice, TBAI urged both the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to immediately arrest those responsible and ensure legal action. The organisation further demanded transfer of the case to either the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a “fair, impartial, and thorough investigation.” TBAI also appealed to the authorities to provide medical care to the injured and humanitarian assistance and compensation to the bereaved families.
The Liangmai Baptist Churches Association also condemned the killing of the church leaders and termed the attack a “hideous sinful act” against humanity, peace and religious freedom. The association urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
At the same time, LBCA expressed concern over the continued disappearance of several persons, including Rev. Dr. Manu Thiumai, Pastor Kenpibou Chawang, Dilip Thiumai, Phenrongwi Thiumai, Phenrilung Chawang and Kaliwangbou Abonmai. The organisation appealed for the immediate and safe release of all remaining hostages from both communities and stressed that innocent civilians should never be used as instruments of conflict or political pressure.
According to the statement, families of the missing persons continue to suffer “unbearable uncertainty” while waiting for the return of their loved ones. LBCA also urged all parties to act with restraint, humanity and respect for humanitarian principles, stating that the safe return of the hostages could help reduce suffering and restore hope for peace. The organisation further appealed for solidarity across communities and faith groups and called for peaceful coexistence to prevail over hatred and violence.
