Imphal, February 18, 2009
Yesterday Manipur Civil Service (MCS) officials were killed by anti-social elements in the North Eastern state of Manipur. The All India Christian Council (aicc), along with condemning the killing, appeals to all the tribes, communities of the state, and particularly the churches of all denominations to condemn the ongoing killings in the state and be involved in restoring the peace, harmony, law and order in the region. Sources told aicc the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Kasom Khullen, Dr Thingnam Kishan, his driver Aribam Rajen Sharma and staffer Yumnam Token were killed. Their bodies were found near Taphou Kuki village in Senapati district after being abducted from Ukhrul a few days back. The Regional Secretary of aicc and Spokesperson of North East Support Centre & Helpline, Rev. Madhu Chandra said, The intention of the killing the MCS officials by the unknown persons is not clear. Yet it could cause communal tension among the different communities of the state, particularly on the eve of general elections due in just few months. Whoever the killers may be, they are anti-people and deserve stringent punishment from the law. Most important, all the communities must maintain peace and harmony and avoid any provocative propaganda. Reports say there is, on average, a killing of three persons each day. This has left countless widows and orphans and is a grave concern for every citizen of the state. Recalling the role of every civil society, including the role of the churches and church bodies, is very crucial. Dr. Sam Paul, aicc National Secretary of Public Affairs, said, Wherever churches exist, they bring the community transformation. I believe the body of Christ and the churches of Manipur still have a big role to bring the community transformation, peace, harmony, law, and order to the state. Dr. Paul appealed to all the Christian churches and denominational bodies to organize mass prayer campaigns for the state and play the role in bringing the transformation just as Christianity in many parts of the world has brought the same. Responding to Chief Minister Shri O. Ibobi Singhs promise of Rs. 10 lakhs to the bereaved families of the SDO and Rs. 5 lakhs to other victims, Dr. Paul said, Mr. Ibobi should not cover failures with a money game. He must act immediately to stop the gruesome killings of the innocent either by anti-social elements or any others. The All India Christian Council (www.aiccindia.org), birthed in 1998, exists to protect and serve the Christian community, minorities, and the oppressed castes. The aicc is a coalition of thousands of Indian denominations, organizations, and lay leaders. Rev. Madhu Chandra is available for interview. He can be contacted at +919868184939. Released by Rev. N. Debendra Singh Vice President, aicc Manipur Chapter
