Imphal, May 19: Amid escalating tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities in Manipur, church leaders have launched significant peace restoration initiatives. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh praised this effort, stating that the active involvement of church leaders could play a crucial role in normalizing the situation.
The unrest intensified following an attack on May 13, when unidentified militants opened fire in the Zero Point area between the villages of Kotlen and Kotjim in Kangpokpi district, resulting in the deaths of three church leaders associated with the Kuki community and injuries to four others. This incident further heightened tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities in the hilly districts.
In this charged atmosphere, a ten-member delegation from the North East India Council for Baptist Churches (CBCNEI) and the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) met with the Chief Minister on Monday. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister and prominent Naga leader L. Dikho.
According to an official from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the church leaders expressed their willingness to act as peace ambassadors between the two communities, stating their intention to engage in dialogue with all parties to restore normalcy. The Chief Minister commended their initiative, expressing his admiration for the collaboration and peace efforts of the church leaders.
The government has encouraged church leaders to continue dialogue between the communities and work towards rebuilding trust among the people.
As part of the peace campaign, two separate teams of church leaders have been formed. One team will visit Kangpokpi district, while the other will travel to Senapati district. The church leaders believe that individuals held hostage by both sides should be released on humanitarian grounds without delay.
The team going to Kangpokpi will meet with the families of the three deceased church leaders to offer condolences. The state government has also assured financial assistance to the families of the victims. Following this, the team will engage in discussions with Kuki church leaders to reduce tensions and promote reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the second team heading to Senapati will meet with Naga church leaders and representatives from Naga civil society organizations to discuss the current situation and the hostage crisis.
In the aftermath of the violence on May 13, police officials reported that over 40 individuals from both communities were taken hostage by various groups in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. However, thanks to the continuous efforts of the administration, community leaders, and civil society organizations, 30 individuals from both communities were released on May 14 and 15.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
