Evangelical Fellowship of India Condemns Killing of Church Leaders in Manipur

The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) has expressed deep grief and anguish over the killing of church leaders associated with the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI) in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday.

According to information received from church leaders and local sources, the victims were returning from a United Baptist Convention gathering in Churachandpur when they were ambushed while travelling toward Kangpokpi.

EFI confirmed the deaths of Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum, and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou in the attack. Several others were reportedly injured, including Rev. SM Haopu Sitlhou, Rev. Kaithang Singsit, Mr. Thangtinlen Sitlhou, and Mr. Lungoumang Lhouvum.

In a statement issued by Rev. Vijayesh Lal, General Secretary of EFI on Wednesday, EFI described the killing of “unarmed church leaders returning from Christian fellowship and ministry” as “deeply disturbing and tragic,” especially amid the continuing unrest and humanitarian suffering in Manipur.

“This tragedy is especially painful for the Church in the North East, where communities bound by shared faith continue to bear the wounds of prolonged conflict and division,” the statement said.

EFI urged authorities to ensure immediate medical care for the injured, provide protection to affected communities, and conduct a “thorough and impartial investigation” to bring those responsible to justice.

The organisation also appealed to all communities and leaders to exercise restraint and prevent further escalation of violence in the state.

Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families and churches in Manipur, EFI called on churches across India to remember the state in prayer during worship services and gatherings.

Quoting Psalm 34:18, the statement said, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”