The Catholic Bishops Conference of India — the national representative body of the community — has expressed sorrow and shock at the “persecution of Christians” in Manipur.

In a statement on Saturday, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the president of the CBCI, said the body was “deeply saddened and shocked to note the resurgence of persecution of Christians in the peace-loving state of Manipur".

"Three Churches and a number of houses have been set on fire and a number of people have been forced to flee,” the CBCI said.

The Right-wing ecosystem, including former MP Subramanian Swamy, has described the violence as a Hindu-versus-Christian conflict. However, student activists, particularly from the tribal groups, have stressed that it is not a religious but an ethnic conflict between the Meiteis and the hill tribes.

Calling for prayers for Manipur in all churches, Archbishop Thazhath said: “The Catholic Church is very much concerned for the people of Manipur, irrespective of which tribe or community they belong to.”

The SFI said in a statement: “It is very unfortunate that the ruling BJP government in the state has utterly failed to anticipate and prevent the ethnic flare-up that led to the violent clashes between the communities in Manipur…. The SFI appeals to the people of Manipur in general and the student community of the state in particular to ensure restoration of peace and harmony... at the earliest.”

Tribal students' groups had protested earlier this week in New Delhi demanding President's rule in Manipur.