Imphal, May 13: Most Reveren Dr. Linus Neli, Archbishop of Imphal, has expressed deep sorrow over the deadly ambush on church leaders in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district and appealed for peace, reconciliation and restraint amid rising tensions in the state.
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| Most Reveren Dr. Linus Neli, Archbishop of Imphal. (File Photo) |
In a statement issued on May 13 titled “Appeal for Peace and Calm,” the Archbishop condemned the attack on two vehicles carrying leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) between Kotzim and Kotlen villages.
The ambush reportedly claimed the lives of innocent civilians and left several others injured, further intensifying fears and uncertainty in conflict-hit Manipur.
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I express my profound grief over the tragic ambush,” the Archbishop said, describing the attack on religious leaders as a “heinous act.”
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He stated that violence in different parts of Manipur continued to deepen the suffering of the people and stressed the urgent need to uphold the sanctity of human life and renew commitments toward peace and reconciliation.
“Violence only deepens wounds, prolongs suffering, and weakens the bonds that unite communities,” the statement read.
The Archbishop appealed to all concerned to refrain from violence and retaliation and instead embrace dialogue, forgiveness, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
He also urged authorities and responsible institutions to act with “wisdom, fairness, and sensitivity” so that peace with justice could prevail and trust among communities could be restored.
Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, Archbishop Neli prayed for healing, protection and lasting peace in Manipur.
ALSO READ: Church Leaders Ambushed by ZUF-K in Kangpokpi; Three Killed, Several Injured
“May the God of peace comfort the grieving, heal the wounded, forgive the wrong, protect all communities, and bless Manipur with reconciliation, understanding, and lasting peace,” he stated.
The appeal comes amid widespread condemnation following the deadly attack on church leaders returning from a Christian gathering in Churachandpur, an incident that has triggered strong reactions from religious bodies, civil society organisations and political leaders across the Northeast.
