Imphal: In the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, ethnic violence between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zo group has left thousands displaced, communities divided, and social cohesion severely strained. Amid this unrest, the Catholic Church has emerged as a beacon of hope, seeking to mediate between warring groups and promote reconciliation. Archbishop Linus Neli of Imphal emphasized that genuine peace can only be achieved through dialogue, healing, and committed political will.
The roots of the conflict trace back two years, when political power struggles and territorial disputes escalated into widespread violence. Earlier this year, the unrest intensified following the resignation of the state’s chief minister and the imposition of President’s rule, leaving Manipur in a precarious state. According to Human Rights Watch, the predominantly Hindu Meitei and mainly Christian Kuki-Zo communities now occupy separate zones, divided by a network of police outposts and security patrols. Over 50,000 individuals remain in refugee camps, suffering the consequences of prolonged displacement and uncertainty.
In an interview with the Vatican’s Fides news agency, Archbishop Neli addressed the limitations of national-level interventions. He reflected on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the state, noting that while the Prime Minister spoke about peace, development, and national unity, the visit failed to confront the fundamental divisions that continue to plague Manipur. “The population of Manipur has been living in separate areas for two years. The wounds will remain if no one actively works to heal them,” Archbishop Neli said, stressing that temporary security measures are insufficient to restore lasting harmony.
Currently, the military’s presence maintains a fragile stability by physically separating the communities and curbing immediate violence. However, Archbishop Neli cautioned that this approach is a temporary fix. “The situation on the ground is entrenched. The wounds will remain if no one does anything to heal them,” he said, underscoring the necessity of political will, goodwill from both sides, and mediation by state and federal authorities to address grievances and restore trust.
The Catholic Church has stepped in to provide both humanitarian and spiritual support. Church-led initiatives offer food, shelter, and medical aid to refugees from both communities, while also fostering intercultural and interreligious dialogue to rebuild trust and understanding. Archbishop Neli highlighted the Church’s role as a bridge between divided groups, seeking to create avenues for communication, shared experiences, and reconciliation.
An additional aspect of the Church’s work involves rebuilding destroyed religious sites, including three churches that were completely demolished during military operations. While access remains restricted due to security concerns, these reconstruction efforts symbolize hope and resilience for communities grappling with loss and displacement.
Archbishop Neli reiterated that true reconciliation requires openness, fairness, and justice. “Reconciliation is possible if the issues at hand are addressed openly, according to criteria of fairness and justice, overcoming barriers and polarization,” he said. The Catholic community’s efforts, he noted, are intended not only to relieve immediate suffering but also to lay the groundwork for sustainable peace in Manipur, emphasizing that social cohesion and mutual understanding are indispensable to the state’s long-term stability.
As the crisis continues, the Catholic Church in Manipur exemplifies the role of faith communities in bridging divides, offering humanitarian relief, and fostering dialogue in the midst of entrenched ethnic tensions. For Archbishop Neli, the message is clear: lasting peace is built through sustained commitment, dialogue, and the courage to address deep-rooted divisions with compassion and justice.