Kohima: The Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) has strongly condemned the killing of church leaders in Manipur, describing the incident as “shocking and sorrowful”, and appealed to all communities to shun violence and work towards peace and reconciliation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NJCF said it had learned that the team led by Rev. Dr. Vumthang Silthou, along with three other members, was ambushed between Kangpokpi and Churachandpur, resulting in the tragic loss of lives.
The forum mourned the deaths of the church workers, stating that they had been “faithfully labouring for peace and reconciliation in the conflict-torn land of Manipur”.
“Their sacrifice is a grievous reminder that violence consumes not only lives but also the hope of communities yearning for healing,” the statement read.
The NJCF further stated that those responsible for the attack “must realise that violence only begets violence”. It urged Kuki, Naga and all communities to reject violence immediately and restore peace, adding that peace was the only way for humanity to live under God.
Quoting verses from the Bible, the forum said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9), and “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
The organisation also expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and prayed for comfort, strength and peace for those affected by the tragedy.
“Let this tragedy awaken in us a renewed commitment to reconciliation, unity, and the sanctity of human life. May the light of Christ guide us away from hatred and toward the path of peace,” the statement added.
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