The violence and targeting of the christian community in Manipur has deeply saddened and alarmed Cardinal Oswald Gracias the Archbishop of Bombay. It is shocking to note the resurgence of persecution of Christians in the peace-loving state of Manipur. A number Churches, formation houses and houses of the Christian community have been selectively targeted and have been set on fire and a number of people have been forced to flee.
Cardinal Oswald Gracias urges the government both at the state and the Center to act swiftly and ensure the safety of all citizens. While he appreciates the Centres response to deploy Army and Aentral armed Police, he urges the state leaders to put an end to vicious circle of violence
The Catholic Church in India is very much concerned for the people of Manipur, irrespective of which tribe or community they belong to.
Cardinal Gracias urges all parishes of the Archdiocese of Bombay to have prayer services for peace in the state of Manipur and for warring parties to enter into dialogue and rebuild Manipur into the beautiful peace loving place that it was.
+Oswald Cardinal Gracias
Archbishop of Bombay
6th May 2023