Shillong, May 14: The United Democratic Party (UDP) today expressed its deepest anguish and unequivocal condemnation of the brutal killing of three pastors in Manipur – Rev Vumthang Sitlhou, Rev Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou.
In a statement today, UDP general secretary Titostarwell Chyne MDC said this “barbaric act” is an attack not only on the lives of innocent men of God, but also on the very fabric of humanity, religious freedom and the constitutional values of India.
The three Baptist church leaders were gunned down in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday. Four others were wounded in the incident.
Chyne said pastors who serve communities with peace, compassion and selfless dedication should never become targets of violence. “We condemn in the strongest terms this cowardly and inhumane act,” he said.
Yesterday, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma termed the attack “unprovoked violence and brutality” against those working to foster peace. He urged the authorities in Manipur to move toward “immediate and strict action” against the perpetrators.
Alexander Laloo Hek, one of only two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs in Meghalaya, branded the incident as a “heinous terror act.”
Today also saw condemnation come from the All India Catholic Union and Catholic Association of Shillong (CAS).
CAS urged for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims but also warned of the danger of a spiral of violence and beseeched the public to reject hatred and anger. “Let peace, understanding, harmony and mutual respect prevail among all people,” it added.
