NEW DELHI: The Tangkhul Katamnao Long Delhi (TKLD) organised a Gospel Concert cum candlelight vigil in the National Capital on Sunday evening to express solidarity with the families of the victims of the recent violence in Manipur’s Ukhrul district. Two Tangkhul Naga civilians – late Chinaoshang Shokwungnao of Tashar and the late Yaruingam Vashum of Kharasom village – two were brutally killed in an ambush by suspected Kuki militants at TM Kasom in Ukhrul district on April 18 while one Naga Village Guard Horshokmi Jamang was reportedly killed by armed Kuki militants in Sinakeithei village on April 24.
Held at Delhi University Indoor Stadium, North Campus under the theme “Arise and Rebuild”, the solemn event witnessed the participation of hundreds of Tangkhul Nagas from all walks of life living in and around Delhi-NCR. Several community leaders; pastors, irrespective of the denomination, and students’ leaders from the different communities also joined the event.
The event began with an invocation by Chipemngam Hongray, chairman of Tangkhul Catholic Community Delhi (TCCD), setting the tone for a solemn evening.
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The gathering observed a one-minute silence led by Tangkhul Baptist Church Delhi (TBCD) Pastor Rev Luther Chamroy in honour of the departed. The TBCD pastor also led the gathering with a special prayer for the bereaved families, the departed and peace in the district and state.
Rev. Dr Mathanmi Zimik, senior Pastor Tangkhul Church Delhi (TCD), delivered the message of solidarity.
Combined Gospel Choir of TBCD, TCD, TCCD and TCD Gurgaon and several artistes, including Ngavarmi Raikhan, Jedidah Shimray, Pem Kashyealo, Mashot Khon, and Chanrei Khon presented solemn Gospel numbers during the concert, expressing their solidarity.
The concert was followed by a candlelight vigil in memory of Late Chinaoshang Shokwungnao of Tashar Village, Late Yaruingam Vashum of Kharasom Village, and Late Horshokmi Jamang of Chatric Khullen, Kamjong district.
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The solidarity programme concluded with a prayer by Rinchui Vashum, vice chairman of Tangkhul Christian Fellowship Delhi (TCFD).
The event was organised to send home the message that the loss was not only for the bereaved families but for the entire community and that the community, irrespective of the distance, stands in solidarity during these trying times. The fund generated through the event would go in aiding the families and individuals of Ukhrul affected by the ongoing conflict.