Outrage in Manipur Following Attack on Church Leaders

The recent murder of three church leaders in Manipur has ignited widespread outrage and led to an indefinite shutdown in the hill districts. Kuki-Zo organizations have condemned the attack as a brutal ambush, calling for peace and cooperation during this tense time. The incident, which occurred while the victims were returning from a conference, has raised concerns about safety and community relations in the region. With calls for a thorough investigation by the Government of India, the situation remains tense as local communities grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 14:36 IST

Condemnation of the Attack

Church leader killed in Manipur on Wednesday

Imphal, May 13: Numerous Kuki-Zo groups expressed their strong disapproval on Wednesday regarding the murder of three church leaders affiliated with the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA), labeling the event as a “heinous ambush and brutal killing.”

Widespread Outrage and Shutdown

The incident has sparked significant outrage throughout the hill districts of Manipur, leading to an indefinite shutdown in Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts starting at 12:30 pm following the deaths of Rev. V. Sitlhou, Rev. V. Kaigoulun, and Pastor Paogoulen.

The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) initiated the shutdown, condemning the attack as a “brutal killing of innocent TBA Church leaders.”

In a statement, the organisation urged all affiliated groups and individuals to cooperate and maintain peace during the shutdown, warning that any non-compliance would be viewed as disrespectful to the deceased.

Details of the Attack

The attack is believed to have taken place when unidentified armed assailants ambushed the vehicles transporting the church leaders between the Kotzim and Kotlen regions in Kangpokpi district.

The victims were returning to Kangpokpi from a TBA conference in Lamka when they were attacked. Reports indicate that at least five additional individuals were injured and are receiving medical care.

The injured include Rev. SM Haopu, Rev. Hekai Simte, Rev. Paothang, along with two drivers named Lelen and Goumang.

Calls for Justice

Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly and barbaric ambush” aimed at Kuki-Zo church leaders and civilians.

In their statement, KIM questioned the motives and timing of such a brutal attack, especially as peace initiatives were being promoted by church leaders and civil society to foster understanding and restore community harmony.

The organization has called for a comprehensive investigation by the Government of India, demanding that those responsible be identified and apprehended.

“It is imperative that the Government of India promptly initiate a thorough investigation into this incident and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice,” the statement emphasized.

Impact on Local Communities

This incident has caused panic and increased tensions in various parts of the hill districts, particularly along NH-2, which is a vital route connecting Manipur with Nagaland and the rest of India.

Interestingly, the timing of the attack has raised eyebrows, as it occurred just before Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh's planned visit to Churachandpur district on May 15.