India (MNN) — Christians in India’s Manipur State need your prayers for wisdom as peacemakers in a deeply complex conflict.

May 3, 2026, marks three years since ethnic violence erupted between the Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki-Zo tribal people. In the first few days, dozens of people were killed, and hundreds of homes and houses of worship were destroyed. Today, it is estimated that 260 people have died and over 60,000 have been displaced in the conflict. (More on the reasons behind the conflict here.)

For three years, Manipur has remained divided, with ongoing unrest.

“This is something that we’ve been right in the thick of, as we have a large mission base in the southern part of Manipur state,” says John Pudaite with Bibles For The World.

Manipur church, c. 2023 (Photo courtesy of Bibles For The World)

Buffer zones between villages and even a year of tight central government control (called President’s Rule) have not brought lasting peace.

“They have installed sort of a caretaker government right now, and they’re trying to continue to police these areas,” says Pudaite, “but we’re seeing already some attacks, incidents of violence, against the tribals happening at some of these flashpoints at these buffer zone areas.” 

Attacks happen on both sides. A bombing on April 7, 2026, killed two Meitei children. Kuki-Zo militants deny responsibility, but the incident sparked new protests and clashes with police. 

Despite the long instability, Pudaite says, “God is good, and His people are extremely resilient. We have not seen any of the churches in the area whose faith is shaken. Rather, it’s been strengthened.” 

Pudaite also shares the incredible news that the southern part of Manipur is “completely evangelized.” Ask God to help believers in Manipur State spread the gospel and build true peace in this conflict. 

 

Header photo: Aid distribution in Manipur villages in late 2023. (Photo courtesy of Bibles For The World)