The Kerala Catholic Bishop Council (KCBC) has strongly condemned the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur and called on the BJP-led Union government to take necessary steps to restore peace in the northeastern state. The apex body of the Catholic Church in Kerala issued a statement on Saturday expressing concern over the violence that has been raging in Manipur for the past few days.
According to reports, two groups in Manipur have been attacking each other, leading to the destruction of institutions, houses, and places of worship. The KCBC has described the situation as “highly condemnable” and called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and work towards finding a peaceful solution.
The violence in Manipur has led to widespread fear and insecurity among the people, particularly those belonging to minority communities. The KCBC has urged the government to take urgent steps to restore law and order in the state and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
The statement from the KCBC comes at a time when there is growing concern over the rise of communal tensions and violence in different parts of India. In recent years, there have been several incidents of mob lynching, communal riots, and targeted violence against minority communities, particularly Muslims and Dalits.
Many civil society groups and human rights organizations have accused the BJP-led government of pursuing a divisive and discriminatory agenda that is undermining the country’s secular and democratic fabric. The government, however, has dismissed these allegations and maintained that it is committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens.
The KCBC’s condemnation of the violence in Manipur is significant because it reflects the concerns of a large section of the Christian community in Kerala, which has been vocal in its criticism of the BJP and its policies. Kerala has a sizeable Christian population, and the community has been actively involved in social and political issues.
The KCBC’s statement has been welcomed by many civil society groups and human rights activists, who have called on the government to take immediate steps to address the situation in Manipur. They have also urged the people of the state to reject violence and work towards building a more inclusive and harmonious society.
The ongoing violence in Manipur is a stark reminder of the challenges that India faces in maintaining communal harmony and social cohesion. The country is home to a diverse range of communities, each with its distinct culture, language, and traditions.
While India’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion and belief, the reality is that minority communities often face discrimination, persecution, and violence. The government must take concrete steps to address these issues and ensure that all citizens are able to live with dignity and respect.
