RNPO, RBCC condemn killing of Church leaders, appeal for peace in Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Tamenglong, May 14 2026: The Rongmei Naga People's Organisation (RNPO) and the Rongmei Baptist Churches Council (RBCC) have strongly condemned the killing of Christian religious leaders and civilians in separate incidents in Manipur, while appealing for peace and harmony in the State.

In a condemnation note, the RNPO denounced the killing of Rev Vumthang Sitlhou, former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC), along with Rev Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulun Sitlhou of Keithelmanbi Military Colony, Kangpokpi.

The RNPO also condemned the alleged attack on unarmed Chiru Naga civilians at Nungsai Tubung under Joujantek Police Station in Noney district on the same evening, in which Wilson Thanga of Dollang village was reportedly killed while two others sustained critical injuries.

Stating that such acts of violence against innocent civilians and religious leaders are unacceptable in a civilised society, the organisation appealed to all communities and stakeholders to refrain from violence and work collectively towards restoring peace and harmony in Manipur.

The RNPO further urged the authorities to identify and take action against those responsible at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the Rongmei Baptist Churches Council (RBCC), .

expressed profound grief and shock over the killing of Rev Vumthang Sitlhou and his fellow pastors, describing them as "martyrs of the faith" who dedicated their lives to peace, harmony and service to humanity.

The RBCC stated that late Rev Vumthang Sitlhou and his family had played a significant role in spreading Christianity among the Rongmei community in the Tamenglong region.

It also recalled the contributions of his father, Pakho Sitlhou, regarded as one of the foundational figures who served the Rongmei Christian community.

Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families and congregations, the council prayed for peace in the State and called for reconciliation among communities.

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