A few concerned citizens from Nagaland, under the blessings of the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum visited Imphal, the state capital of Manipur, on Thursday to offer friendship and show commitment in ending the escalating violence. The forum received a warm welcome from the Interfaith Forum for Peace and Harmony Manipur and together, they conducted prayers for peace at the Manipur Press Club.
A joint statement signed by the vice president of Nagaland Joint Christian Forum, Dr N Papino; Vice President of Fellowship of Naga Baptist Churches Kohima, Rev Dr Vevo Phesao; and Rev Dr Wati Aier, convener of Forum for Naga Reconciliation said that in this sad and painful time, they have come to offer their friendship, show their commitment to end the escalating violence and express their empathy and solidarity with the people of Manipur. “We recognize the spiraling conditions are dividing – neighbors, friends, and communities – from each other in Manipur,” they said.
“Sadly, throughout our shared history, we have witnessed that violence only begets violence which only leads to more human suffering and pain, and destroys relationships with one another and the world around us,” they further said. As neighbours, they asked that the people of Manipur give peace a chance and courageously end the continuing cycle of violence.
The release said that they encouraged people to walk together for the present and future generations by talking with one another and beginning a dialogue process that connects generations and cultures to heal society.
“We believe in the reconciling work and the profound peace of the divine. This is the conviction that undergirds our visit. To this end, we offer our sincere prayers and support. May God be our help,” they prayed.