Two Years Later: Religious Violence in Manipur Today
May 2025 marks two years since religiously targeted violence broke out in Manipur, India.
To recap: What started as tribal conflict quickly turned into targeted persecution against Christians, leaving tens of thousands of people with no option but to flee from their homes.
A year ago, Open Doors US reported that more than 200 Christians had since been killed, over 700 churches were burned, around 10,000 homes were destroyed, and more than 70,000 people became instant refugees.
But when we called on friends like you, you stepped in, equipping our partners in Manipur to distribute Relief Kits to affected families! Larshan was one of many people reached by your generosity.
When religious violence erupted in Larshan’s village, he fled with his wife and two young children—first into the jungle and eventually to a relief camp. Left with nothing but the clothes on their backs, Larshan was concerned for his family’s well-being. But God heard his prayers! Larshan and his family received a Relief Kit, covering immediate needs like bedding, toiletries, and rice because of generous friends like you!
And now, you continue to meet long-term needs for families struggling to recover from the impact of the violence.
Magathi’s family is a prime example. Magathi and her husband, Lalit, struggled to find employment due to unrest and violence in their area. For months, they were left with little means to survive.
Until—through your support—an Adult Literacy Class started nearby. Magathi enrolled, eager to develop new skills. She participated in an entrepreneurship training offered through the class, learning how to make shampoo, detergent, pickles, and other practical goods she could sell. She then learned about budgeting and creating a business plan—concepts she shared with Lalit and began to implement immediately. As a result, Magathi became a successful entrepreneur.
Most importantly, Magathi learned about Jesus through the class. As religiously targeted violence continued to impact the area, Magathi and her family received Jesus as their Savior!
So, what does Manipur look like now?
Although the initial mob violence and riotous burnings have tapered off, conflict between the mostly-Hindu Meitei tribe and mostly-Christian Kuki tribe continues. Many Christians remain unable to gather for worship, and most from the Kuki tribe have yet to return to their communities due to fear of being attacked again.
In early 2025, an unexpected change in Manipur’s leadership took place. It is our hope and prayer that Manipur’s new leaders will ensure that the religiously targeted violence of the last two years truly comes to an end.
Today, the rebuilding of homes, churches, and lives in Manipur remains a long-term project. This is another reason India’s Christians are grateful for you: our partners are there, on the ground, with roots in the communities, and making a difference. The most important way you can support those who have been affected by the crisis in Manipur is by praying.
- Pray for God’s protection over Christians in Manipur, including our ministry partners
- Pray for peace and common ground among the Kuki and Meitei tribes
- Pray for the Kingdom of God to expand throughout Manipur
- Pray that Manipur’s leaders will act with wisdom and in the best interest of all its citizens
