Pastor Letlal Haokip
The crisis in Manipur has entered its third year, and the consequences of the prolonged ethnic conflict are becoming more severe with each passing month. What began as tension between two communities has now evolved into a complex situation where different groups both within and outside the state are attempting to gain political, social, or territorial advantage. This is not only dangerous but morally unacceptable.
Across the world, when two sides are locked in conflict, it is the responsibility of neutral parties to act as mediators. We see this in the attempts by global powers to bring Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table, and in the efforts of the United States, Egypt, and others to halt hostilities between Hamas and Israel. But in Manipur, the opposite is occurring. Many communities have remained silent, and some have begun taking sides to strengthen their own position instead of working toward reconciliation and a solution to the warring groups.
Silence and siding with power only deepen the crisis
For two years, several communities in Manipur have stayed on the sidelines. Now, as the crisis drags on and the Government of India struggles to find a lasting solution, some groups are using the situation to win favour with the majority community. This has resulted in minority communities already deeply affected by the violence experiencing further marginalisation. Leadership does not mean choosing the safer side. Leadership means choosing the harder, riskier path that leads to peace. Unfortunately, many leaders and influential voices in Manipur have chosen comfort over courage. By aligning themselves with the majority during this sensitive time, they have contributed to greater division and deeper mistrust.
The solution must come from within
It is time for the leaders of all communities, both those involved in the conflict and those who are not, to step out of their comfort zones. They must join hands with the governments of Manipur and India to bring the warring groups to the negotiating table for a permanent settlement. A crucial truth must be acknowledged: No outside force can restore peace in Manipur unless the people of themselves take responsibility for reconciliation.
If internal efforts are not made soon, the divide will widen to the point where it becomes nearly impossible to repair. Communities currently untouched by violence may also find themselves affected in the days to come, socially, culturally, and even geographically.
A Call to the neutral communities
To the communities that have not been directly drawn into the fighting, this is a humble appeal:
Do not wait. Do not remain silent. Do not benefit from the suffering of others. Instead, come out of your comfort zone, as your participation is essential. Bringing a solution to Manipur will not be achieved by the two communities alone. It requires the collective wisdom, courage, and mediation efforts of every group in the state to the negotiating table with the blessing of the leaders from different communities. Silence today may result in shared suffering tomorrow.
A Message rooted in faith and shared humanity
The Bible reminds us that all people are created in the image of God. No community created in His image deserves to be destroyed or silenced. History shows that those who suffer are often preserved as a remnant, to be blessed in due time. Therefore, instead of seeking the approval of the majority or aligning with power for personal gain, communities must seek justice, compassion, and unity. Those who remain silent for selfish reasons may find that conflict eventually reaches their doorstep.
As Scripture teaches: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Scriptures also highlight that God hears the prayers of the righteous, Proverbs 15:29: “The LORD is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous,” and 1 Peter 3:12: “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer.” James 5:16: “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” Psalm 34:17: “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.”
A Final Appeal
The time to act is now. Let every community, every leader, and every citizen of Manipur, especially those from Christian communities, humbly request to come out of your comfort zone and, trusting in God, please take a step toward solving the problem with prayer.
Let us move beyond fear, self-interest, and silence. The path toward a permanent solution lies not in waiting for solutions from outside, but in active participation from within. With courage, prayer, and collective responsibility, peace is possible. Amen!
