In an emotional appeal for peace amid continuing tensions in Manipur, the son of a church leader killed in the recent ambush in Kangpokpi District on Friday, May 15, publicly forgave those responsible for his father’s death and urged civil society groups to help secure the release of civilians still being held.

Haominlun Sitlhou, son of slain pastor Rev. Dr. V. Sitlhou, made the appeal during the burial ceremony of the three church leaders at the campus of the Thadou Baptist Association India in Motbung, which was attended by thousands of mourners.

“I forgive those who killed my father in the name of the Lord and in the larger interest of peace,” Sitlhou said, addressing the gathering.

He also appealed to Naga civil society organisations, including the United Naga Council, the Naga People's Organisation and the Senapati District Students' Association, to intervene and help secure the safe release of the remaining Kuki civilians.

Rev. Sitlhou was among the three church leaders killed in the May 13 ambush on civilian vehicles at Zero Point along the Kotlen–Kotzim road in Kangpokpi district. The attack also left several others dead and injured, according to officials.

The burial ceremony, held under the aegis of the Thadou Baptist Association India and acknowledged by Kuki Inpi Manipur, drew large numbers of mourners from across the Kuki-Zo community and neighbouring areas.

Family members, church leaders and community representatives paid tributes to the deceased, as prayers and hymns marked the final rites.

The killings have triggered widespread grief and condemnation in the hill districts, with community leaders calling for justice and restoration of peace in the conflict-hit region.