The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India on Wednesday expressed deep grief over the killing of Baptist church leaders in Kangpokpi district of Manipur and appealed to all communities to reject violence and retaliation.

In a statement issued on May 13, the Catholic body said two vehicles carrying leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) were ambushed between Kotzim and Kotlen villages, leaving several people dead and others injured.

Condemning the attack as a “heinous act,” the CBCI said the religious leaders targeted in the ambush had remained a source of hope and strength amid the prolonged crisis in Manipur.

“We are heartbroken by this painful incident in which innocent lives were lost and several others were injured,” the statement said.

The bishops’ conference stated that continued violence only deepens wounds, prolongs suffering and weakens the bonds that unite communities in the state.

Echoing the appeal made by Linus Neli, the CBCI urged all sides to refrain from “every form of violence and retaliation” and instead embrace dialogue, forgiveness, reconciliation, restraint and peaceful coexistence.

The organisation also appealed to authorities to act with “wisdom, fairness and sensitivity” to restore public confidence among communities and ensure that peace and justice prevail in the conflict-hit state.

The CBCI further said it stood in “prayerful solidarity” with the bereaved families and prayed for peace and healing in Manipur.

“May the God of peace comfort the grieving, heal the wounded, forgive the wrong, and bless Manipur with lasting harmony and peace,” the statement added.