SHILLONG, MAY 13: Terming the killing of Baptist church leaders in Manipur a “grave assault” on social harmony, the National People’s Party national chief and Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday called for a transparent and time-bound investigation into the incident.
In a statement, Sangma expressed strongest condemnation of the brutal and cowardly killing of Baptist church leaders in Manipur. He said the attack on “unarmed pastors and church workers” was “deeply disturbing and utterly unacceptable in any civilised society.”
According to him, the victims were associated with the Manipur Baptist Convention and the Kuki Church Leaders Forum, and had “devoted their lives to spiritual guidance, peacebuilding, and service to humanity.”
“Targeting such individuals is not only an attack on innocent lives but also a grave assault on the values of harmony, compassion, and coexistence that bind our society together,” he stated. Extending condolences to the families, Sangma said his party “stands in solidarity with the bereaved families and the entire Kuki Baptist community during this moment of profound grief.” He also prayed for “the eternal repose of those who lost their lives” and “a swift and full recovery to those injured in this horrific incident.”
The NPP chief urged both the Centre and the Manipur government “to take immediate and decisive action.” “A thorough, transparent, and time-bound investigation must be undertaken to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are identified and brought to justice without delay,” he said. “Accountability is essential not only to deliver justice to the victims but also to restore faith among affected communities,” he added. Stressing the need for protection in volatile areas, the NPP said authorities must “enhance security measures to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable communities, particularly in conflict-affected areas.” “The repeated targeting of civilians and community leaders underscores the urgent need for stronger intervention and preventive action,” the party noted. “At this critical juncture, the NPP reiterates the importance of dialogue, reconciliation, and collective efforts toward peace. Violence can never be a solution to any grievance, and such acts only deepen divisions and prolong suffering,” the release said. The NPP further appealed to “all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, community leaders, and citizens, to come together in the spirit of unity and work towards restoring peace, harmony, and mutual trust across Manipur and the Northeast.”
By Our Reporter
