The Indian Christian Women’s Movement (ICWM) has strongly condemned the killing of three Kuki Church leaders in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district and called for peace and reconciliation amid continuing ethnic tensions in the state.
The attack took place on May 13 when armed men reportedly ambushed a group of community leaders. Besides the three deaths, four others were seriously injured in the incident. The violence has increased concerns about the safety of minority communities in conflict-affected areas of Manipur.
In a public statement, ICWM described the killings as a “gruesome incident” and warned that the situation in Manipur remains deeply troubling. The organisation noted that the violence comes against the background of ethnic unrest that has continued in the state since May 2023.
ICWM leaders Susan Thomas and Raynah Marise expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. They said the movement stands with all those suffering because of violence and insecurity in the region.
The organisation appealed to communities not to respond with revenge or further violence. Instead, it encouraged dialogue and reconciliation between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities. According to the statement, peace can grow only when people respect differences and see one another as brothers and sisters rather than enemies.
ICWM also urged government authorities and civil society groups to work together to restore peace and protect vulnerable communities.
The statement concluded with a call for people to become “sowers of peace” and to promote understanding among different ethnic and religious groups in Manipur.
