Dear Friends,

We are deeply concerned about the horrific attacks on Christian tribals in the state of Manipur, India. Tribals from the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar community have borne the brunt of this ongoing asymmetric conflict. We urge the international community to pay immediate attention to this dire situation and take decisive action to protect vulnerable communities, ensure they have control over their ancestral lands, and uphold their right to practice their faith without any fear of persecution.

The conflict that erupted on May 3rd, 2023, in Manipur expedited and escalated a rising trend in incidents of violence, discrimination, and intimidation targeting Christian minorities. The violence has been marked by ethno-religious tensions that have had a disastrous impact on the tribal community. Florence Lowe (Gwite), Niang Hangzo, and Lien Gangte, who are founding members of NAMTA (North American Manipur Tribal Association), had their own family members dispossessed from their childhood homes as they ran for their lives from the blood-thirsty mobs that came to attack them.

Sexual violence and atrocities against women have been another horrifying aspect which was highlighted by the viral video of two women who were paraded naked, molested, and raped. These attacks not only violate the fundamental rights of individuals but also threaten the social fabric and stability of the region. It is imperative that urgent measures be taken to address this alarming trend, provide redressal for the affected parties, and prevent further harm to innocent lives.

Therefore, we call upon legislators, human rights organizations, diplomatic missions, and relevant United Nations bodies to:

1. Monitor the Situation: We urge human rights organizations to closely monitor the situation in Manipur and document cases of attacks, discrimination, and persecution against Christians and other minorities.

2. Raise Awareness: We call on diplomatic missions to India and relevant United Nations bodies to raise awareness about the deteriorating situation in Manipur and advocate for the protection of religious freedom and the rights of vulnerable communities.

3. Conduct Investigations: We urge the United Nations and other international bodies to conduct thorough investigations into allegations of human rights abuses and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable under international law.

4. Provide Assistance: We call on the international community to provide assistance, support, and protection to victims of attacks and their families, including access to medical care, legal aid, and psychosocial support.

5. Promote Dialogue and Peacebuilding: We urge diplomatic missions and international organizations to support initiatives that promote interfaith dialogue, tolerance, and understanding in Manipur, with the aim of fostering peaceful coexistence among all communities.

6. Engage with Indian Authorities: We call on the international community to engage with the government of India and the state government of Manipur to address the root causes of this violence and work towards creating an environment where all individuals can lead a dignified life and exercise their right to freedom of religion or belief without discrimination or fear.

NAMTA believes that defending human rights and the protection of religious freedom is essential for the promotion of peace, stability, and human dignity in Manipur and beyond. We urge all stakeholders to heed this call for action and stand in solidarity with the persecuted communities in Manipur.

Please watch the video of Florence Lowe (Gwite) speaking at the United Nations Human Rights Council here: