Reported by: Bit Irom
Imphal: The Thadou Students’ Association has demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency into the ambush that killed three Thadou church leaders in Kangpokpi district. The association stated that the case is currently being investigated by the state police, but no significant breakthrough has been made so far.
In a statement, the TSA strongly condemned the May 13, 2026 attack on a delegation of Thadou Baptist Church leaders along the Kotlen-Kotzim Inter Village Road in the Kangchup Geljang sub-division. The ambush claimed the lives of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou and two other senior pastors, while five others sustained critical injuries.
Describing the incident as an act of terrorism, the association accused the Government of Manipur led by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of administrative failure, criminal negligence, and alleged communal bias. The TSA also called for the removal of the state Director General of Police and demanded an end to what it described as discriminatory treatment of the Thadou community.
The association further expressed disappointment over the silence of Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen and Losii Dikho, citing their historical association with the Thadou Baptist community and the deceased church leaders. According to the TSA, their silence reflects neglect and discrimination against the Thadou community.
Criticising the state government’s response, the TSA alleged that authorities have failed to take concrete action even days after the killings. The association further claimed that counter-insurgency forces are being limited to logistical support duties instead of being actively deployed for anti-terror operations following the attack.
The student body also highlighted the response of the son of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, who reportedly appealed for peace and forgiveness in line with Christian values while continuing to seek justice through legal means.
The TSA warned that continued inaction, perceived communal bias, and the failure to solve the killings could deepen mistrust among communities in Manipur and further destabilise the state.