More organisations have expressed concern over the violence in Manipur and have appealed for peace and calm.
NJCF: Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) comprising of all denominations in Nagaland and Christian community expressed deep concern about the ongoing unrest and recent escalation of violence in Manipur. The forum said that reports of attacks and visual images of burning of churches, destroying properties, and taking of lives were deeply troubling.
The forum, therefore, condemned all forms of violence and appealed to the communities to remain calm and create a sense of confidence among the people who have suffered destruction of property and loss of lives and living in fear and in insecurity.
In a press note, NJCF president Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho said that violence in any form was never a solution, but would only distance one group from the other. Manipur is a developing state in the region and such an unfortunate turn of event should not smear the outlook, Keyho stated.
The forum urged upon all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue and find a non-violent resolution to their differences. It also called upon all parties to respect the sanctity of sacred places and properties.
NJCF said it believes in the system and people in authority to take stalk of the situation and diffuse the tension among different communities and give hope to those who are suffering and are bearing the brunt of violence. Therefore, the forum appealed to the authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety and security of all individuals and all communities affected by this violence.
While acknowledging the long-standing co-existence of different communities in Manipur, the forum prayed that the long-term grievances were suitably addressed in consultation with the people rationally.
NJCF further called upon all citizens and groups of the society to engage in a reflective, constructive dialogue to find a peaceful resolution. “Let us work together towards reconciliation and peace building,” NJCF appealed.
LBCA: Lotha Baptist Churches Association, Vankhosüng expressed pain and concern to learn about the recent events of arson, violence and loss of innocent lives in Manipur.
In a solidarity message, to Manipur Baptist Convention president Rev. SR Onesima Anal and regional secretary Rev. K. Losii Mao, the LBCA president Rev. Dr. E. NrioEzung, general secretary EchungbemoShitiri, vice president Sukumbemo Murry, executive secretary Rev. Khonbemo P. Kikon and jt secretary P. RenbenOvung conveyed deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those who have sacrificed their lives and also prayed that Almighty God rest their souls in eternal solace.
LBCA said the most disheartening news was the continued arson and violence that had taken its toll on the Christian community of Manipur, the Churches and its institutions.
Quoting the Bible– “the Church is the body of Christ”, LBCA said that although the Church exists on earth, it was nevertheless, a heavenly treasure that belonged to the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
However, the duty as Christians was to pray to our Father to forgive them “for they do not know what they do”.
Conveying its solidarity and prayer support, LBCA said that the association also fervently pray that the loving God will heal the land and the people of Manipur.
“Do not be dismayed, for our living God is with you always. In every situation, He will send His Holy Spirit to guide and protect you,” LBCA said.
The association also prayed that MBC and all the associations under it will take refuge and strength in the word of God, and steadfastly seek His guidance to lead us through.
FNR: Taking note of the recent incident in Manipur, Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) said its imagination defied reality of tears, pain and suffering and prayed and empathise with fellow brothers and sisters.
In a statement, FNR said conflict are tragic and undesired and was moved and persuaded by a sense of urgency and solidarity over the situation in Manipur. FNR appealed to all those affected to rise to the occasion and instead act with love.
Further FNR also called upon all leaders of communities to overcome communal pride and hatred in order to allow peace for dialogue and restoration of broken relationships.
It said the way towards human healing is to preserve hope between rage and hate and between “us”and “they”. FNR said this was its hope for the ‘torn people’ in the coming together of communities to give peace a chance and practising empathy among all.
FNR also quoted Romans 13:12 (The nights is past, the day is coming near, let us finally do what we should) to be transformed and thank our Creator. FNR also offered solidarity, good will and prayers to all in Manipur state.
RNPO: Rongmei Naga People’s Organisation (RNPO) has also expressed concerned by the recent wave of violence, arson, killings, and destruction of public properties in parts of Manipur.
RNPO president Chingkhiulung Gonmei said they were pained to learn of the tragic events that have caused so much harm and destruction to innocent people, adding that it was a matter of serious concern.
It said that such acts of violence and arson were not only illegal, but also morally reprehensible that was against the principles of tolerance, harmony, and peaceful coexistence.
RNPO, therefore, called upon the authorities to take immediate action to ensure safety and security of all citizens, particularly the affected communities who have been targeted in these violent attacks.
The organization also appealed to all stakeholders to work together to address the root cause of the issue and promote understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
It is only through dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect that can build a society that is truly inclusive and just, it said.
Meanwhile, RNPO conveyed heartfelt condolences to bereaved families who have lost their dear ones.
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