Dibrugarh, May 5: The Kuki-Zo community of Dibrugarh city gathered for a candle light service on the first anniversary of the ongoing ethnic crisis and divide between two communities in Manipur.
The event was organized by the Kuki Worship Service (KWS) in collaboration with the Dibrugarh Mizo Welfare Association.
The day was observed with reverence to honor fallen heroes and innocent victims of the violence, with similar services held in other locations, including Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
A moment of silence was observed to honor the victims, followed by prayers for peace, unity, and triumph over evil.
The candle light service was chaired by Thongminhao Haokip and began with an invocation from KWS Chaplain Joseph Thangngew, followed by an address from Pu. Paolen Chongloi. Dr. Lamkholal Doungel, Chairman of KWS and Executive Member of Kuki Inpi Assam, delivered the keynote speech and exhortation.
He emphasized on the importance of standing against societal evils and moving forward guided by the teachings of Christ to achieve peace and unity.
Dr. Doungel referred to the biblical passage, which recounts lessons from Aaron and Hur under Moses’ leadership.
He stated, “God doesn’t mean you’re free from attack, but you are free from defeat.” The service included accounts from two survivors of the conflict, an elderly man in his 80s, Pu Letkhokam Vaiphei, and a young student of Manipur University, Boilun Haokip. They both described their harrowing experiences and the challenges they faced.
Musical performances were a part of the event. Lalam Hengna and Jefani Changsan performed the song “Ki khen thei ihipoi” which implies ( “we can’t afford to be apart”), which gained popularity following the atrocities against the community. Cindy Haokip also sang a song promoting unity.
Representatives from the Mizo Welfare Association and the Dibrugarh Inter Church Forum (DICF) also participated in the event.
The President of DICF, Denis Bird, appreciated KWS for organizing the program and expressed sorrow over the situation in Manipur.
He stressed that prayer and initiatives like this are essential to bring about change.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Jampu Guite and a candle lighting ceremony, symbolizing hope and unity. All participants lit candles, marking the end of the solemn and impactful service.
This crisis has been marked by unprecedented levels of hatred and violence, unparalleled in the history of independent India.
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