“I Have Forgiven the Perpetrator”: Slain Pastor’s Son Calls for Peace in Manipur

Manipur, May 16, 2026: “I have forgiven the perpetrator” — the words of Haominlun Sitlhou, son of slain pastor Fr. V. Sitlhou, have emerged as a powerful testimony of faith, forgiveness, and hope for peace in violence-hit Manipur.

Speaking during the burial ceremony held at Motbung in Kangpokpi district, Haominlun made an emotional appeal before thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects to his father, who served as President of the Thadou Baptist Association.

In a moment marked by grief and deep pain, he publicly forgave those responsible for his father’s killing and urged the Kuki, Naga, and Meitei communities to reject hatred and anger and embrace peace as followers of Christ.

Though mourning the loss of his father, Haominlun said he would not choose revenge and instead would continue the mission of reconciliation and harmony that his father dedicated his life to.

“My heart is filled with anger and hatred, yet my father dedicated his life to peace. As a proponent of peace, I shall follow in my father’s footsteps,” he said.

He further affirmed that no threat would stop him from carrying forward his father’s legacy of working for peace, healing, and unity among the people of Manipur.

During his appeal, Haominlun also called upon civil society organisations to help secure the release of civilians who continue to be held captive amid the ongoing tensions in the state.

His words, delivered in the midst of sorrow and uncertainty, resonated strongly with mourners gathered at the burial, offering a message centred on forgiveness rather than vengeance.

As tensions continue in Manipur, Haominlun’s appeal stands as a reminder of the urgent need for peace, healing, reconciliation, and justice so that every community may once again live together in harmony and dignity.

By Tungthang Zou