Three Baptist Pastors Murdered in Targeted Ambush in Manipur, India

Three Baptist pastors were shot dead in an ambush in India's northeastern state of Manipur while traveling home from an interchurch peace conference. The religious leaders were returning from a gathering focused on easing tensions between tribal Christian communities in the conflict-hit state. At least five other church leaders were seriously wounded in the targeted attack.

The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) was among the first national organizations to confirm the deaths and issue a formal response. The deceased were identified as prominent advocates for regional reconciliation, including leaders from the Thadou Baptist Association India. The wounded survivors were transported to a hospital in the state capital of Imphal for advanced medical care.

The attack highlights the ongoing, fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnoreligious violence has regularly flared over the last three years. In these ongoing clashes, Christian properties, churches, and local businesses have found themselves disproportionately targeted by armed militant groups. Local religious partners report that journeys between towns have become incredibly dangerous for believers.

In response to the tragedy, international human rights and religious monitoring bodies are calling for immediate protection for affected minority faith communities. They emphasize that while local peace efforts are crucial, concrete law enforcement accountability is required to stop the violence. Christian organizations across India are holding solidarity prayer gatherings for comfort and justice.