Failure to restore peace in Manipur national tragedy: churches’ group

Nagpur: Condemning the recent escalation of violence and unrest in Manipur, the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) said on Tuesday that failure to restore peace and security in Manipur is not only a national tragedy but also a reflection of the systemic breakdown of governance and the rule of law in the state.

In a statement issued on the day, the NCCI expressed its concern and anguish over the ethnic strife that broke out in the state two years ago, which continues spiralling out of control and leading to suffering, loss of life, displacement, etc., for people there.

“The people of Manipur are caught in a state of utter hopelessness, as their lives have been disrupted by relentless violence and insecurity. Families have been torn apart, and entire communities have been displaced from their homes,” the statement read.

“Basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare are no longer accessible to many, as the conflict disrupts the normal functioning of society,” it said.

“The continued instability is eroding the very social fabric of Manipur, and the toll on the mental and physical well-being of the people is staggering,” NCCI said.

Further, the organisation urged the Union government to take immediate steps to contain the situation in the state and listed some demands. These demands include the deployment of additional central security forces to Manipur. There is a need for an inclusive and transparent peace process that involves all affected communities, local leaders, and civil society organisations, and immediate relief to the displaced, such as the elderly, children, and those with special needs. Since winter is approaching, the relief operations must include access to food, water, medicine, winter clothes, and shelter, as NCCI requested.

NCCI also urged authorities to ensure that all acts of violence are thoroughly investigated irrespective of ethnic differences and that those responsible for committing heinous acts are held accountable through the legal process.

However, the organisation warned that the intervention of state authorities is often viewed by many communities with suspicion, and there is a perception of partiality among them. Therefore, the State government must act as a neutral mediator and facilitator for peace, “..ensuring that the voices of all affected communities are heard and that no group is marginalised in the peace process,” NCCI said.

NCCI officially represents 14 million Christians belonging to the Protestant and Orthodox Churches in India.