Dimapur, May 13 (MExN): The killing of three church leaders in an ambush in Manipur’s Kangpokpi on May 13 triggered widespread condemnation from church bodies and civil society organisations across the Northeast, while the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) announced a two-day shutdown across Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in protest against the attack.
According to statements issued by various organisations, the incident took place between Kotzin and Kotlen villages on May 13 when pastors and believers belonging to the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) Church were returning to Kangpokpi from Churachandpur after attending the United Baptist Convention Assembly and the TBA Conference at Lamkan.
The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) said three church leaders were killed and five others sustained grievous injuries in the ambush.
Total shutdown in Kuki-Zo areas
Following an emergency meeting, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) announced a total shutdown across all Kuki-Zo inhabited areas from midnight of May 13 to midnight of May 15 along with a two-day mourning programme.
The organisation alleged that the attack was carried out by the “ZUF-Kamson faction in collusion with VBIGs” and said the incident had “deeply wounded the sentiments of the Kuki-Zo people”.
During the shutdown, all business establishments, government and private offices, schools and vehicular movement will remain closed, although emergency services, including airport operations, medical and fire services, have been exempted.
Churches across Kuki-Zo areas will also hold candlelight vigils at 7 pm on May 13 in memory of the victims and for justice, peace and healing.
ZUF denies involvement
Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) denied any involvement in the incident and rejected allegations linking the outfit to the ambush.
In a statement issued by its Ministry of Information and Publicity, the organisation termed allegations circulated by certain sections of the public and social media, including by the Kuki Inpi Manipur, as “completely baseless, unfounded and misleading”.
It said the organisation was “neither aware of nor connected in any manner with the attack” and appealed to civil society organisations and the media not to spread unverified information that could inflame the already sensitive situation.
NSCN (IM) cautions against ‘unverified’ accusations
The NSCN (IM) also condemned the killings, describing the victims as “highly respected church leaders” and “unarmed civilians.” It expressed condolences to the bereaved families and urged authorities to identify the perpetrators behind what it termed an “unheard-of barbarism.”
The NSCN (IM), through its MIP, further cautioned against unverified accusations and alleged that some organisations were attempting to exploit the tragedy for ulterior motives, warning that irresponsible narratives could deepen divisions and prolong suffering in the region.
Church bodies and civil societies appeal for peace and justice
In separate statements, several church and civil society organisations condemned the killings and appealed for peace and justice. The NBCC termed the attack “a violation of God’s law and an assault on the image of God in which every person is made”, while the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) described it as a “brutal and inhuman act of violence” that undermines peacebuilding, reconciliation and communal harmony.
Both organisations urged authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation, identify and prosecute those responsible, and ensure justice through lawful means. They also appealed to communities to reject hatred and violence and work collectively towards peace, justice and human dignity in Manipur.
The Fellowship of Naga Baptist Associations (FNBA), the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM), Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) and the United Naga Council (UNC) also strongly condemned the killings. They expressed grief over the death of Rev V Silthou, former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention, who was among those killed, and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
The organisations denounced violence and retaliation, called for restraint and reconciliation, and urged authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The UNC additionally expressed concern over reports that around 20 Nagas from Konsakhul village were allegedly being held hostage by residents of Leilon Vaiphei village following the incident, and appealed for their immediate and unconditional release, stating that targeting innocent civilians would only deepen tensions and further damage communal harmony.
Nagaland Dy CM condemns
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton has strongly condemned the attack on two vehicles carrying church leaders and members who were travelling on an official and spiritual mission. In a statement, Patton said such acts of violence against unarmed church leaders and innocent citizens were unacceptable and deeply disturbing.
He further urged the concerned authorities to ensure a fair and timely investigation so that those responsible for the attack are identified and brought to justice according to law. The Deputy Chief Minister also appealed to all communities to maintain peace and harmony and not allow the incident to create further tension in the region.
