Today marks the second anniversary of the violent ethnic conflict that erupted in Manipur on May 3, 2023.
The day was observed by both the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities through shutdowns, memorial events, and renewed appeals for justice and reconciliation, highlighting the enduring pain and unresolved tensions that continue to grip the state.
In Churachandpur, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) declared May 3 as “Separation Day,” commemorating the lives lost and calling attention to the deepening ethnic divide. Events are scheduled throughout the day, including tributes at Sehken Martyrs Park, where the day was observed as “Inevitable Split Day.”
Cities and towns across the region and beyond — including Lamka, Kanggui, Tengnoupal, Moreh, Shillong, and Delhi—held various programs and silent demonstrations to remember the victims and underline continuing demands from both communities.
Meanwhile, the National United Christian Forum (NUCF)—a coalition of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), National Council of Churches in India (NCCI), and Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI)—issued a strong statement appealing for peace, justice, and reconciliation.
Highlighting the staggering human cost of the conflict, the NUCF noted that over 250 lives have been lost, more than 60,000 people displaced, and over 300 churches destroyed since the violence began. “These were not just buildings but sanctuaries of hope, worship, and community,” the statement read.
The NUCF urged all parties to cease violence unconditionally and called upon the Central Government, under whose authority Manipur is currently placed through President’s Rule, to take decisive action to:
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Disarm militant groups,
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Ensure justice and accountability,
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Conduct thorough investigations,
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Provide relief and rehabilitation for the displaced, and
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Facilitate psychological and social healing.
The statement also stressed the need for inclusive dialogue to resolve long-standing issues related to land, identity, and political representation.
In a unified spiritual gesture, churches across India have been invited to observe Sunday, May 4, 2025, as a Day of Prayer for Manipur, seeking healing for the land and strength for its people in their pursuit of justice and national unity.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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