Kuki Rights Body Condemns Systematic Destruction of Churches in Manipur, Alleges Nationwide Assault on Christians

The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) issued a scathing condemnation of what it termed a systematic and coordinated assault on Christian communities and their places of worship in Manipur and across several parts of the country, warning that the attacks pose a grave threat to religious freedom and constitutional values in India.

The Kuki human rights body said the destruction of churches in Manipur represents the most alarming manifestation of the ongoing crisis. Since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023, more than 350 churches and Christian institutions, predominantly belonging to the Kuki-Zo tribal community, have been razed, burned, or vandalised, it said.

The organisation noted that the attacks occurred amid large-scale violence that has claimed hundreds of lives, destroyed over 4,000 homes, and displaced more than 60,000 people, forcing entire congregations into prolonged exile.

“The deliberate targeting of churches is not collateral damage of conflict but a calculated attempt to erase the spiritual and cultural foundations of a religious minority,” the statement asserted.

KOHUR said that even after two and a half years, the scars of violence remain deep, with displaced believers observing religious festivals away from their homes, pastors facing threats, and reconstruction efforts being repeatedly obstructed.

The rights body further flagged a nationwide resurgence of intolerance during the 2025 Christmas season, documenting coordinated attacks across several states including Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Assam and Rajasthan.

Reported incidents included vandalism of Christmas decorations in public spaces and malls, assaults on carol singers and worshippers — including children and persons with disabilities — harassment of vendors, and mob disruptions of religious gatherings.

“These acts represent a blatant violation of the fundamental right to worship freely, as guaranteed under the Indian Constitution,” KOHUR said.

Expressing grave concern over what it described as a prevailing climate of impunity, the organisation alleged that perpetrators of both the mass destruction in Manipur and the recent Christmas-related attacks continue to operate with minimal fear of legal consequences.
“This failure of justice not only denies victims redress but also dangerously erodes India’s secular foundations,” it warned.

KOHUR urged the Government of India and state authorities to immediately initiate impartial and time-bound judicial investigations, ensure swift prosecution under laws protecting religious freedom, strengthen security measures for Christian communities, implement a comprehensive restoration and compensation plan, and publicly reaffirm the nation’s commitment to pluralism and freedom of faith.

“The protection of religious minorities is not optional but a constitutional obligation,” KOHUR said, calling on authorities to act decisively to prevent further violence and restore public confidence in the rule of law.