Christian organisations in India and abroad have strongly condemned the killing of three church leaders in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, calling the attack a grave assault on peace and communal harmony amid the continuing ethnic unrest in the state.
The killings of Reverend Vumthang Sitlhou, Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou have triggered widespread outrage across the Kuki-Zo community and renewed demands for justice and a transparent investigation.
The Civil Rights Initiative Internationale (CRII), headed by former IPS officer K Babu Rao, condemned the killings and sought a judicial probe into the incident.
In a statement issued from Hyderabad, CRII described the slain leaders as respected spiritual figures known for their peace-building efforts, humanitarian work and attempts at reconciliation in violence-hit Manipur.
The organisation said Rev. Sitlhou, former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention, was widely respected for his commitment to justice and communal harmony.
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) also condemned the killings, describing the ambush as a “deeply disturbing” act that had further wounded a region already reeling under prolonged unrest.
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The bishops said the attack on vehicles carrying leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association in Kangpokpi district had intensified fear and anxiety among local communities.
Calling the victims “servants of hope and faith”, the CBCI said violence only deepens divisions and weakens the social fabric of society. The Church appealed to all communities to reject retaliation and instead pursue dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo community on Thursday observed a two-day mourning period and a 48-hour shutdown called by Kuki Inpi Manipur following the killings.
Markets, educational institutions and business establishments remained closed across several Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, while prayer meetings and condolence gatherings were organised in the hill districts.
The Council of Baptist Churches in Northeast India also condemned the killings and appealed for peace and restraint among communities.
The UK-based Kuki Worship Service termed the incident an attack on peace and humanity and urged authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.
The latest killings have heightened concerns over the fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnic tensions and sporadic violence have continued for months.
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