Manipur: Christian groups take to streets to protest ‘favouritism’

Imphal: Thousands of people belonging to the Christian community took to the streets in Imphal, Manipur, and staged a mass rally demanding regularisation of churches constructed at public places across the state.

The All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO), which took out the rally on Wednesday, alleged that not a single church was included when the Manipur government regularised 188 worshiping places constructed at public places in the state.

Protesters carried placards that read “No church, no peace”, “We want justice and equal treatment” and “Respect the sanctity of church”, among others. The rally started from the THAU ground in Imphal and proceeded towards the rest of the capital city.

While addressing the gathering, AMCO president Prim Vaiphei protested the alleged favouritism by the government in the name of religion. He further alleged that the CM had failed to listen to the demands of the Christian communities in Manipur.

Vaiphei also claimed that churches in Manipur have played a major role in spreading the message of peace and harmony among the communities. The AMCO has submitted a memorandum to the chief minister requesting regularisation of churches in Manipur.