Peace Efforts Shattered as Three Baptist Pastors Killed in Manipur
(Photo: Evangelical Fellowship of India)
In a tragic turn of events, three Baptist pastors were ambushed and killed in Manipur, India, while returning from a peace conference aimed at reducing tribal tensions. This incident, which occurred on May 13, 2026, also left at least five others wounded and has sparked widespread condemnation from Christian organizations and regional authorities.
The pastors, key figures in the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI), were traveling back from the United Baptist Convention Assembly in Churachandpur to Kangpokpi when they were attacked along the Imphal-Tamenglong highway. This brutal act has cast a shadow over ongoing reconciliation efforts between the Kuki-Zo and Naga communities, both predominantly Christian tribal groups embroiled in ethnic conflict in the region.
Victims Identified
The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) confirmed the deaths of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, TBAI’s president; Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum, TBAI’s finance secretary; and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou, the superintendent pastor. Injured in the ambush were Rev. SM Haopu Sitlhou, Rev. Kaithang Singsit, Mr. Thangtinlen Sitlhou, and Mr. Lungoumang Lhouvum, with three receiving advanced care in Imphal.
EFI’s General Secretary, Rev. Vijayesh Lal, expressed deep concern over the murders, describing them as “deeply disturbing and tragic.” He called for immediate medical assistance for the wounded and a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
A Life Dedicated to Peace
Rev. Dr. Sitlhou, one of the victims, had been a pivotal figure in fostering dialogue between the Kuki and Naga communities. His efforts included organizing a peace consultation in Nagaland and participating in discussions in Churachandpur aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence.
His death has drawn widespread grief, with various community leaders acknowledging his dedication to reconciliation. Allen Brooks of the United Christian Forum of North East India highlighted the loss, stating, “Rev. Sitlhou was at the forefront working tirelessly for peace to return to the land he so dearly loved.”
Complex Conflict in Manipur
The state of Manipur has been a hotspot of ethnic violence since 2023, primarily involving the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. More recently, tensions have escalated between the Kuki-Zo and Naga tribes, leading to clashes and further complicating peace efforts. Numerous armed groups operate in this volatile environment, contributing to the instability.
Disputed Responsibility
Accusations of responsibility for the ambush vary, with Kuki-Zo organizations blaming the ZUF-Kamson faction, allegedly collaborating with NSCN-IM and Meitei insurgents. The Zeliangrong United Front denied involvement, suggesting instead that NSCN-IM operatives were responsible, using a fictitious faction name.
Manipur’s Chief Minister, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, condemned the attack and pledged to cover the medical expenses of the injured. He emphasized the state’s commitment to justice and urged an end to community-based hostilities.
Christian Leaders Call for Unity
The attack has prompted calls for unity from Christian leaders across Northeast India and beyond. The United Christian Forum of North East India described the killings as an assault on the Christian faith and the fabric of brotherhood in the region. Meanwhile, the Council of Baptist Churches in North East India urged Christians to rise above ethnic divisions, echoing the sentiments of World Evangelical Alliance Secretary General Rev. Botrus Mansour, who called for greater protection for Christians.
With tensions still running high, the Kuki Students’ Organisation declared an emergency shutdown, and roads were blocked in protest. This incident underscores the fragile nature of peace efforts in Manipur, highlighting the challenges of reconciliation in a region marked by ethnic divisions and violence.
© Christian Daily International
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
