Baptist Leaders Urge Release of Hostages Amid Manipur Tensions

Imphal: A delegation of ten prominent church leaders convened in Senapati on Tuesday to address the escalating unrest in Manipur. Representing the Manipur Baptist Convention, the Council of Baptist Churches in North East India, the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, and the Baptist World Alliance, the group met with representatives from the United Naga Council and the Naga People’s Organisation.

The primary focus of the discussion was the ongoing crisis involving individuals held in captivity. Following the meeting, the church leaders issued a formal appeal to both the United Naga Council and the Kuki Inpi Manipur, urging the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. They emphasized that the prolonged detention of innocent civilians is exacerbating community mistrust and causing profound suffering for affected families.

Highlighting the importance of human life and dignity, the delegation called upon all stakeholders to exercise restraint and act with greater responsibility. The leaders concluded their appeal by advocating for a path toward reconciliation, urging all communities to renounce violence and cooperate in the effort to restore lasting peace and normalcy throughout the region.