On October 31, a Meitei police officer, Chingtham Kumar, was killed by an unidentified sniper in the village of Moreh. Moreh is a town bordering India and Myanmar, with its population being made up of majority Kuki-zo.
After the Meitei officer was killed, Manipur police quickly began a manhunt to find the one responsible, suspecting a Kuki-zo. Their manhunt begot more violence.
The officers broke into homes, looted and even set buildings on fire. The minority Kuki-zo in Manipur watched as those who were supposed to protect them engage in hatred against them. What’s more, many Christian Kuki-zo men fled into the surrounding forests, fearing they would be blamed for the killing. Thousands of women and children were left behind—defenseless.
Fearing for their own safety, the women brought their children to nearby refugee camps. They were denied access. Meanwhile, officers continued to loot homes and destroy vehicles.
In an act of peaceful protest, 3,000 women gathered and demanded the police force not be allowed to loot their homes and take family possessions.
After two days of protest, the army intervened and assured the women they would not be harassed any longer.
The Kuki Women Organization for Human Rights wrote to Prime Minister Modi, urging a “protection of human rights, the rule of law and the safety of affected communities.”
Give the gift of Bibles and help your persecuted family grow in the truth.
In Psalm 121:8, it says, “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Our persecuted family in Manipur continues to fear for their lives. They’re oppressed not just by another ethnic group, but also by those sworn to protect them. However, God promises to watch over His children from their coming to their going.
Join us now in praying for continued peace in Manipur.
Lord God, our persecuted family in Manipur continues to face violence and hatred—even from officers of the law. The situation is a powder keg with the smallest spark ready to set it off. We pray Your amazing peace over Manipur. Let this violence and hatred die down. Unite these groups. Help them to build a richer community together, instead of separate. You are a God of restoration. May Your will be done. Amen.
Photo caption: Women and children have fled their homes fearing violence from Manipur police.
About the author
Tim Dustin writes and edits for Global Christian Relief, where he speaks on behalf of the persecuted around the world. Get the latest stories and prayer requests at GlobalChristianRelief.org
