Imphal: The brutal killing of three Kuki Church leaders Rev. V. Sitlhou, Pastor Paogoulen and Pastor Kaigoulun in Kangpokpi district, Manipur, has drawn widespread condemnation from regional political leaders, including the Chief Ministers of Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Manipur, who have expressed anguish and extended condolences to the bereaved families and the church community.
Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said he was “deeply disturbed and anguished by the attack on TBA Church leaders in Kangpokpi District, Manipur. Such acts of unprovoked violence and brutality against leaders who work to foster peace, unity, and brotherhood are unacceptable and must be strongly condemned. I urge the authorities in Manipur to take immediate and strict action against those responsible.”
Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram, also expressed grief over the incident, stating: “Deeply saddened and anguished by the brutal killing of Kuki Church leaders in Manipur. Such heinous violence is utterly condemnable and unacceptable. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the church community.”
Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, also condemned the incident, saying: “I strongly condemn the brutal killing of a delegation of Kuki Church leaders in Manipur. Such barbaric violence against innocent lives is unacceptable and has no place in any civilised society. Condolences to the bereaved families and the church community during this time of grief.”
Yumnam Khemchand, Chief Minister of Manipur, called the ambush “a heinous incident” and appealed for communal harmony, saying: “Such acts of violence and terror are utterly unacceptable and threaten the peace and harmony of our society. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. I appeal to all communities to exercise restraint and uphold peace and law and order.”
Rev. Dr. V Sitlhou, Rev. Kaigoulun and Pastor Paogoulen were on their way to Kangpokpi when militants suspected to be NSCN-IM-linked Zeliangrong United Front opened fired at them near Kotzim village today, killing the three at the spot and injuring many others. The incident occurred around 10.30 am. Till the time of filing this report, no groups claimed responsibility over the killing.
