“I Forgive Them”: Son of Slain Kangpokpi Pastor Appeals for Peace, Hostage Release
Edited by Elvish Haokip, Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi: May 15, 2026
In a moment that drew tears from thousands at a mass burial in Motbung, Haominlun Sitlhou publicly forgave the men who killed his father in the May 13 NSCN-IM ambush in Kangpokpi District. The son of Rev. Dr. V. Sitlhou said he was choosing peace over vengeance and urged civil society groups to act urgently to secure the release of civilians still being held hostage.
Rev. Dr. V. Sitlhou and two other church leaders were killed on May 13 while traveling in Kangpokpi District. Their burial was held on Friday, May 15, at the campus of the baptist church in Motbung. Thousands of mourners from across the hill districts attended the service, including pastors, community leaders, and grieving families. Witnesses said the gathering remained silent as Haominlun Sitlhou addressed the crowd.
Speaking beside his father’s casket, Sitlhou said the killings should not lead to more bloodshed. “My father preached forgiveness. Today, I forgive those who took him. But I also ask: let the remaining hostages go home. Do not let more families suffer like ours,” he said. He called on the UNC, NPO, SDSA, and other Naga and Kuki civil bodies to intervene and prevent further escalation.
The appeal comes amid continuing tensions in Manipur after a series of hostage incidents and the targeted killing of church leaders. Multiple Kuki organisations have set deadlines this week for the release of more than 30 alleged detainees in Senapati and Ireng Naga. Sitlhou’s statement adds a personal, religious dimension to the wider calls for de-escalation.
Church leaders present at the ceremony described his words as a “prophetic act of peace” during a period of grief and anger. The Baptist Association said it would forward his appeal to all tribal apex bodies and the state administration. Security was tight across Kangpokpi during the burial, with no incidents reported.
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Disclaimer: This report contains claims and allegations made by community organisations and individuals regarding ongoing conflict-related incidents in Manipur. Independent verification and official investigation are ongoing.
