The European Parliament recently passed a resolution urging the Indian government to address the ongoing violence in Manipur, a state in India. The violence has resulted in the destruction of churches and Christian property, causing numerous casualties and displacing tens of thousands of people. Tensions between the Hindu Meitei community and the predominantly Christian Kuki population escalated in May, leading to the outbreak of violence. Reports from Open Doors indicate that over 350 churches, along with thousands of Christian homes and properties, have been destroyed, burnt, and vandalized. The death toll stands at around 100, and over 30,000 Christians have been forced to leave their homes.
In a separate development, R. Vanramchhuanga, the vice-president of Mizoram Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has resigned, accusing the Manipur and Union governments of supporting the burning of churches in Manipur. Vanramchhuanga claims that Meitei militants are responsible for the destruction of 357 churches, pastors' quarters, and office buildings belonging to different churches. He criticizes the Manipur Chief Minister and the Union Home Minister for their silence on the matter, suggesting that the lack of condemnation indicates support from state and central authorities. Vanramchhuanga's resignation reflects his belief that these incidents support allegations of the BJP being perceived as an "anti-Christian party."
The European Parliament's resolution and Vanramchhuanga's resignation shed light on the concerning situation in Manipur, calling for urgent action to restore peace and protect the Christian community from further violence and discrimination.
The brutal killing of three Meitei civilians in Kwakta Lamkhai on August 5 under Bishnupur district has triggered strong condemnation and widespread anger among womenfolk in Manipur. In a display of protest, women took to the streets, burning effigies of central leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah.
More: Christianity Today, The Wire, India Today
Pray: Heavenly Father, we pray for the people of Manipur, India, who are facing violence and persecution. We ask for your divine intervention and protection over the Christian community. Bring comfort to those who have lost their homes and loved ones. Grant wisdom and strength to the leaders in India as they work towards peace and reconciliation. May justice prevail and may those responsible for the destruction of churches and properties be held accountable. In Jesus' name, Amen. (Psalm 34:17-18)
Lord, we lift up the leaders of the European Parliament as they have passed a resolution urging the Indian government to address the violence in Manipur. We pray that this resolution brings attention to the plight of the affected Christians and prompts necessary actions to restore peace and stability. May the international community stand in solidarity with those suffering in Manipur and advocate for their rights and safety. Lord, bring healing and reconciliation to the conflicting communities in the region. We trust in your mercy and justice to prevail. Amen. (Proverbs 31:8-9)