Lamka: The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki tribes in Manipur, has expressed deep gratitude to the leaders, churches, and civil society organisations of Mizoram for their strong condemnation of the brutal killing of three Thadou Baptist pastors in Kangpokpi district earlier this month.
In a press release issued by Janghaolun Haokip, Secretary Information and Publicity, today, the organisation described the killings as a “heinous attack on innocent men of God” and a direct assault on the fragile prospects of peace in the region.
The three pastors — Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum, and Pastor Paogulen Sitlhou — were reportedly killed on May 13 while returning from what KIM described as a peace initiative. The organisation stated that the incident had deeply shocked the Kuki-Zo community and intensified fears and insecurity amid the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur.
KIM said the prompt and unequivocal condemnation issued by various Mizoram leaders and organisations had provided much-needed moral support to grieving families and the wider Kuki-Zo community. The statement noted that such solidarity reaffirmed the “deep ethnic, cultural, and fraternal bonds” shared among the Chin-Kuki-Mizo peoples across borders.
Among those specifically acknowledged by KIM were Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma, former Chief Minister Pu Zoramthanga, Rajya Sabha MP Pu K. Vanlalvena, and Mizoram Assembly Speaker Pu Lalbiakzama. The organisation also thanked several major political parties, churches, student bodies, and civil society organisations, including the Mizo National Front (MNF), Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), Central Young Mizo Association, Mizoram Presbyterian Church, Council of Churches in Mizoram, and the Global Mizo Council, among others.
While expressing appreciation for the solidarity shown by Mizoram, KIM warned that the humanitarian and security situation in Manipur continues to deteriorate rapidly.
The organisation alleged that 14 Kuki-Zo individuals remain “held hostage” by various Manipur Naga organisations in Senapati and surrounding areas. It further claimed that economic blockades targeting Kuki-Zo regions have been announced, which could worsen the humanitarian crisis by restricting movement and disrupting essential supplies.
KIM cautioned that the situation may worsen further if it is not closely monitored and addressed urgently. According to the statement, the continuing instability has created growing uncertainty regarding peace and justice in the state.
Appealing directly to the people of Mizoram, KIM urged Mizo leaders, churches, and civil society groups to remain vigilant and continue monitoring developments in Manipur. The organisation also sought continued moral support, advocacy, and prayers during what it described as a challenging and uncertain period for the Kuki-Zo people.
