Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: June 19, 2026
Last month, three church leaders attended an event focusing on peacebuilding in Manipur, India. Sadly, they never made it home.
Their deaths triggered a wave of protests and shocking retaliation, which spiralled into a hostage crisis. It was another serious escalation in the ongoing instability in Manipur State.
There is a real need to pray — not only for tribal tensions to ease, but for the protection of those who courageously work for peace.
On 13 May, Rev Dr Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou — senior church leaders from the predominantly Christian Kuki-Thadou* tribal community — were part of a group travelling home from the United Baptist Convention Assembly. This was a Christian event with a focus on peacebuilding and reconciliation among tribal communities in Manipur.
While passing along a hilly stretch of road, unidentified gunmen opened fire on the two cars — killing the three church leaders instantly. At least five others were taken to hospital with life-threatening gunshot injuries.
Rev Dr Vumthang Sitlhou was a respected Baptist leader, widely known for his involvement in reconciliation efforts between tribal Christian communities in Manipur. His death raises serious concerns about the safety of faith leaders working in conflict areas.
In the hours that followed, shutdowns and protests were reported in several Kuki-Zo areas of Manipur. Retaliatory abductions also began in different areas, which escalated into a hostage crisis involving civilians from both Kuki and Naga communities.
By 16 May, several hostages had been released, including 14 Kuki and 14 Naga civilians. But others were still not free, and protests continued calling for their release.
Tragically, we later learnt that the six remaining Naga hostages did not survive. Their bodies were returned last week, and two Kukis were killed the next day.
This cycle of violence cannot be allowed to continue. As we respond in prayer, we draw on the words of James 3:17-18:
‘But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.’
Please pray:
- For wisdom, reconciliation and peace in Manipur.
- For the protection of peacemakers, including church leaders.
- For the families who have lost loved ones in this recent wave of violence.
- For a swift, thorough and transparent investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
*Who are Manipur’s tribal communities?
- The Kukis are a group of tribal communities living mainly in the hill districts of Manipur and other parts of northeast India and Myanmar.
- The Thadou is one of the largest Kuki tribes in Manipur. Most Thadou people are Christians (particularly Baptists) and churches play a significant role in community life, education, relief work, and peacebuilding efforts.
- Kuki-Zo is often used as a broader term for related tribes with shared ethnic and cultural roots.
- The Nagas are another major tribal group in northeast India. They are made up of several tribes with different identities. Like the Kukis, most Nagas in Manipur are also Christians.
While the larger conflict in Manipur (ongoing since 2023) has mainly involved the Kuki and Meitei communities, tensions have also been growing in some areas between Kuki-Zo and Nagagroups.