Church's role sought for peace in Manipur

Church has been urged to intervene and defuse tension in Manipur where fresh violence last week killed three and injured 80 others.

The violence between Nagas and Meiteis was sparked over Manipur government's decision to disallow T Muivah – a separatist leader of National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN – IM) – to enter the state.

Candle light vigil and special prayers have been organized in different states expressing solidarity and condemning the bloodshed.

"Manipur indeed has reached a stage where no human effort or political agency can solve its problem. Church as a powerful institution can respond and initiate possible solution," says Madhu Chandra, regional secretary of the All India Christian Council and spokesperson of the North East Support Centre & Helpline.

"Churches in Manipur are deeply divided or rather in dilemma at this crucial juncture. We need to pray for God's wisdom to all church and mission leaders to respond the way God wants. We need the churches in Manipur to stand up united and involve in building peace and harmony of the society," he added.

Manipur has over dozens of separatist militant groups apart from the one led by T Muivah. Muivah's (NSCN – IM) wants Naga areas of Manipur to be part of a greater Nagaland. Something that is opposed tooth and nail by the Manipuris.

Meanwhile, on May 9, Naga organizations in Delhi held a candlelight service at India Gate, New Delhi in protest against the violence.

The vigil was organised by Naga Students Union of Delhi and Naga fellowships and churches. Rev. Kamthui, pastor of Zeliangrong Christian Fellowship of Delhi led the service at the vigil.

The service is "a plea to the national media and concerned citizens to help in this fight against violations of Human Rights in the NE regions," a note form the organizations said.