SW News: Urgent prayers for the conflict-hit Manipur state in northeastern India have been sought by Archbishop Dominic Lumon of Imphal. The prelate is seeking prayers for the transformation of the “minds of the people who are led by hatred and religious violence”.

Archbishop Lumon exhorted everyone to pray for the “political leaders, decision-makers and men of goodwill so that they initiate amicable solutions. Let there be peace, harmony and common brotherhood and those who have been deprived of their rights and dignity get their justice.”

Speaking to pontifical charity Aid to the Church in Need, the prelate said that there was an enormous need for prayers as the destruction and loss suffered by the Church and people are great. Since May, thousands of people have been forced to flee to safe areas and camps following clashes between the mostly Hindu Meitei and largely Christian Kuki communities.

In the attacks, more than 300 churches and other buildings belonging to various denominations were either destroyed or damaged. The archbishop said that his people do not have communication with the outside world because of the clampdown on the internet by the government since clashes broke out.

Archbishop Lumon said in a letter addressed to the aid organization that the situation is still grim and tense in Manipur. “So far, no lasting political solutions have been found and the apathy and the silence of the authorities continues.” He added that any sort of intervention by the Church should not be hasty. Instead, it should be carefully carried out as there are plenty of obstacles because of the political turmoil. He also lamented that mutual suspicion and animosity were increasing day by day.

In his letter, Archbishop Lumon also explained that the Church is extending humanitarian assistance in the form of essential supplies, hygiene packets, psychological support and medical support to the displaced masses.