MANIPUR's ETHNIC CONFLICTs LEAD TO SPLIT IN CHURCH
In a significant but painful development, the ongoing conflict in Manipur has led to a formal division within the Baptist Church in the state. Several Kuki-Zo Baptist churches have officially broken away from the Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) to form the United Baptist Church (UBC), sources said.
Sadly but true, the separation was formalized in the presence of the MBC General Secretary and other leaders in Kangpokpi.
The decision reportedly was prompted by the inability of Kuki-Zo members to attend office in Imphal due to the prevailing violence in the region.
As a result, the MBC was forced to replace the Kuki-Zo members, effectively recognizing the separation.
This development marks a significant shift in the Baptist Church's structure in Manipur, highlighting the far-reaching impact of the conflict on the state's social and religious fabric.
According to sources the formation of the UBC is seen as a response to the growing insecurity and instability faced by the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur.
The separation is likely to have significant implications for the Baptist Church's operations and outreach programs in the region.
The conflict in Manipur has been ongoing for several months, resulting in widespread violence, displacement, and human rights abuses.
The impact on the state's religious and social institutions has been severe, with the Baptist Church being the latest casualty.
The fact this split in church at the organisational level came after imposition of President's Rule shows the violence-hit state has to go a long way before relations are normalised between Kukis and Meiteis.
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