Arson on three churches reported in Manipur

Until this week since five years, there were no reports of arson against the Christian community in North East Manipur. The latest report of attack on three churches, however, might indicate a new wave of violent extremism.

Two churches were reported burnt down and one attempted in the Imphal West District of Manipur.

On May 10, unidentified miscreants burnt down Phumlou Baptist Church and Taothong ECA Church. Windows, furniture and music instruments were destroyed in the fire. Timely interference by the local people saved it from being completely gutted down.

In a similar fashion, arson was reported on St Joseph Catholic Church located at Phayeng Sabal Leikai. The church has also suffered loss.

The police have registered a case and are yet to identify the culprits.

North East Support Centre & Helpline spokesperson Madhu Chandra says, "There is report of an uprising Hindutva like communal force in Manipur which has started targeting Meitei Christian minorities in valley. To save from communal riots like Gujarat 2002 and Kandhamal, all civil society must resist and oppose the uprising neo communal force in Manipur."

The Manipur Baptist Convention, Meitei Baptist Convention and Evangelical Church Association have together condemned the arson. Later talking to media persons, they pleaded to people to strive for a peaceful and progressive society.

Differences in religion or culture, must not lead to discrimination of communities, they said, urging authorities to ensure protection of churches.

Executive secretary of the Meitei Baptist Church, Phairenbam Dhaneshor, said the people must avert such acts of violence in future.

According to the All India Christian Council, Manipur last witnessed violence on Christians in 2004 and 2005. Over 10 churches were burnt down, pastors and mission workers were attacked, people forcefully converted, during the period.