Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) has sought immediate intervention of President Droupadi Murmu to restore peace and stability in Manipur, which has been witnessing ethnic clashes since May.
In a letter to the president, CFD said that the situation in Manipur had reached a critical juncture, with escalating tensions causing distress and upheaval among its residents. The forum also expressed pain that several churches and religious establishments were destroyed during the violent conflict.
These institutions have historically played a vital role in fostering a sense of community, promoting values of peace and harmony and providing vital services to the people, it added.
“We beseech you to initiate efforts for the reconstruction of the damaged churches and religious institutions, symbolizing our commitment to religious freedom and unity,” the forum said.
CFD was also of the view that through President Murmu’s guidance and influence, it could pave way for meaningful dialogue and resolution, ensuring the restoration of peace and stability in the region.
Further, the forum which had recently visited the strife-torn state, said that individuals displaced by this conflict and currently residing in relief camps were in dire need of assistance.
The forum appealed to the President’s office to facilitate their safe and dignified repatriation to their homes, ensuring that they can rebuild their lives with the support of the government.
CFD was optimistic that Murmu’s compassionate leadership would guide them towards a solution that upholds the values and principles that the nation holds dear. It said that the President’s intervention would not only bring solace to the affected communities, but also “reinforce the idea that unity and diversity are the cornerstones of our great nation.” “Your decisive action during these challenging times will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” CFD stated.
Prayer rally ,candle light service on Sep 3
Christian Forum Dimapur chairman Rev. Moses Murry and secretary Rev. Fr. CP Anto have informed that the forum would be organizing a ‘prayer rally’ and candle light service’ for Manipur on September 3, at 5 p.m. at DDSC (public ground) under the theme- Pursue Peace and Justice (Psalm 34:14, Isaiah 1:17).
CFD said their objective was to appeal to the Central government and Manipur government to restore peace and justice in Manipur.
The forum also appealed to the government to rebuild the religious institutions that were damaged during the violence, particularly Churches, so that people of Manipur who have been displaced can come back to their own homes and worship God through which peace and justice can prevail.
Therefore, CFD has appealed to all Christian leaders and believers in and around Dimapur including people of other faith to participate and express solidarity and support for peace and justice in Manipur
Meanwhile, CFD team led by Rev. Moses Murry, vice chairman Rev. Vitoshe Swu, adviser Rev. Dr. N Paphino and Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati visited Manipur from August 26-28.
The team visited two Meitie relief camps at Moirang district and two Kuki relief camps at Churachandpur. The team also met and held prayer fellowship with All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO), Metie Christian Churches Council Manipur, Kuki Baptist Association and Kuki’s Christian Leaders Fellowship.
The team exhorted the leaders to uphold their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and work together with a great hope for restoration of peace and Justice in the state of Manipur, CFD said in a press note.
The team members also assured to organise a joint meeting with the Christian leaders of Meities and Kukis at the earliest in order to strengthen and restore the relationship between the two communities irrespective of their faith.
The team members expressed their gratitude to the AMCO, MCCCM, KBA and KCLF for organising the program for the CFD team’s visit and making it a great impact and success.