By Sr. Florina Joseph, SCN
Manipur, India – Nearly two years after the violent ethnic conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur, the Catholic Church continues to play a crucial role in assisting displaced victims on their road to recovery.
The violence, which claimed over 200 lives, left approximately 67,000 people internally displaced, according to the 2024 Global Reports. Despite the abatement of hostilities, many victims still struggle with trauma, displacement, and economic instability.
Stability, but not normalcy
Fr. Athanasius Mung, parish priest of St. Thomas Church in Singngat, acknowledged the improved conditions but cautioned against assuming a complete return to normal life. “We have gained a lot of peace and stability compared to the time when all we could hear were gunshots, violence, and lamentations,” he told Vatican News. “I don’t say that things are back to normal, but there is better stability.”
While some displaced individuals remain in relief camps, others have found shelter in rented homes or in houses built by the Archdiocese of Imphal. However, many continue to face severe hardships. “Apart from having a roof over their heads, they have nothing, not even basic necessities. They are jobless and have no sources of income,” Fr. Mung explained.
Mental health support initiative
In response to the ongoing crisis, a mental well-being training programme was conducted at St. Thomas Parish in Singngat on March 1. The programme, organized by the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) in collaboration with the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI)–Commission for Migrants, brought together 63 participants from various relief camps. Twelve volunteer leaders were selected to extend mental health support within their communities.
Fr. Mung emphasized the importance of this initiative. “People in relief camps are emotionally and mentally disturbed by the havoc caused by the ethnic violence,” he said. “Equipping these volunteers with essential mental well-being skills will help in healing the community as they are in reachable proximity.”
Challenges in education and livelihoods
Education remains a critical challenge for displaced children. Government schools in the region are barely operational, and private institutions struggle to accommodate students free of cost. Meanwhile, the lack of employment opportunities further exacerbates the economic difficulties faced by affected families.
Despite generous donations from supporters worldwide and ration provisions from the government, Fr. Mung admitted that these contributions remain “insufficient for a decent living.”
Faith and resilience amidst adversity
The Archdiocese of Imphal has taken significant steps to support the displaced, embarking on a project to build 600 houses for affected families, with 200 already completed and inhabited. Beyond physical support, the Church also provides spiritual and emotional guidance to those affected.
Among those impacted is Sarah Suannuam, who lost her home to the violence. “My husband and I are jobless, and we never know what tomorrow holds or how we will survive. Yet, I must say that I have felt God’s presence very clearly,” she shared. Another victim, Mr. Tungthang, who lost his home, village, and parish, expressed similar sentiments: “The loss is terrible, but we find strength in each other.”
As the people of Manipur navigate their path to recovery, faith and solidarity remain their pillars of hope. While the road ahead is challenging, the unwavering support from the Church and humanitarian organizations provides a beacon of light amidst adversity.
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