Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: A delegation of Baptist church leaders from Manipur, representing bodies including the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC), Baptist World Alliance (BWA), Asia Pacific Baptist Federation (APBF) and the Council of Baptist Churches in North East India (CBCNEI), met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Sunday, urging immediate steps to restore peace, justice and communal harmony in the state.
During the meetings, the delegation submitted a memorandum seeking a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the recent ambush and killing of three church leaders- Rev. Dr Vumthang Sitlhou, former General Secretary of the MBC, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou.
They also called for strengthened security in vulnerable areas, prevention of further violence and initiatives to promote dialogue and reconciliation among affected communities.
The memorandum expressed deep concern over the ongoing unrest in Manipur, highlighting continued violence, loss of civilian lives, displacement of families and the worsening humanitarian situation.
It urged authorities to take swift action to restore law and order, ensure protection of civilians and facilitate rehabilitation and compensation for victims and displaced persons. It further stressed the need for long-term peacebuilding measures and safe resolution of hostage-related concerns affecting both communities.
In response, Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh stated on social media that he held a “meaningful interaction” with representatives of CBCNEI and MBC at the Secretariat, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho. He emphasized the shared responsibility of safeguarding peace, harmony and brotherhood in the state.
The Chief Minister also appealed to church leaders to continue guiding communities towards dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual trust, reiterating that the state government remains committed to maintaining peace, ensuring security and working for the welfare of all citizens.