IMPHAL: A delegation comprising leaders of 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) on Sunday met Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, seeking immediate intervention for justice, peace, and restoration of communal harmony in the state.
During the meetings held in Imphal, the delegation expressed concern over the continuing violence, loss of innocent lives, displacement of families, and the worsening humanitarian situation affecting different communities in Manipur.
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A memorandum submitted to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Lok Bhavan appealed for urgent steps to protect innocent lives, restore normalcy, and ensure justice for all affected communities.
The memorandum referred to the recent ambush and killing of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, former General Secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum, and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou, stating that the incident had “deeply shocked and saddened” people across the state. The church bodies also condemned all forms of violence, killings, abductions, intimidation, and destruction of property irrespective of community affiliations.
The delegation urged the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to restore law and order, ensure protection of innocent civilians, and rebuild trust among communities.
Among the key demands placed before the Governor and the Chief Minister were entrusting the investigation into the recent killings to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), strengthening security arrangements in vulnerable areas, preventing further violence, and facilitating dialogue and reconciliation among affected communities.
The memorandum also sought humanitarian assistance, rehabilitation, and compensation for victims and displaced families, while calling for long-term peacebuilding efforts in the state.
The delegation further raised concern over the present situation involving hostages from both communities and appealed for immediate intervention to ensure their safe release and restoration of peace.
