Choosing Peace Over Revenge

THE heavy air of Manipur has fractured once more, this time dragging the Naga and Kuki communities into a dangerous spiral of suspicion. At the heart of the latest standoff is a bitter arithmetic of human lives: Nagas claim six of their people are being held captive by Kukis, whilst Kukis counter that fourteen of their own are being held hostage by Nagas. This toxic gridlock erupted into open chaos at Shangkai village in Ukhrul district, where a peaceful Kuki protest turned ugly. As security forces intervened with tear gas to clear the vital Imphal-Ukhrul highway, the situation deteriorated rapidly into an exchange of live gunfire between communities, proving yet again how easily a spark can light the dry wood of ethnic anxiety.

Tragically, the heaviest price for this instability is always paid by the innocent. Amidst the gunfire, a non-local truck driver transporting essential rice supplies was hit by a bullet and killed. One cannot help but feel a deep sense of grief and sorrow for his family, left to moun a father, son, or husband who had absolutely no stake in this conflict. His death leaves us with a burning question: where are the state and central security forces when they are truly needed? Their failure to prevent the escalation or to secure a vital lifeline like National Highway 202 exposes the complete collapse of the Manipur state government, which continues to look on helplessly as lawlessness takes root in yet another district.

 

This madness must not be allowed to widen into a new communal front. It is high time both communities came together for direct, unconditional negotiations. Leadership means rising above bitterness; both sides must release their alleged captives immediately, without waiting for the other to act first. Crucially, the individuals involved in these criminal abductions must be booked and brought to justice under the law as isolated wrongdoers. We must stop blaming entire ethnic groups for the criminal actions of a few armed men. To tar a whole community with the same brush is a lazy, dangerous path that only ensures the cycle of vengeance continues.

 

True peace requires the courage to talk, not the malice to take hostages. We are reminded of the words of Psalm 34:14: “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it”.  Peace is not a passive wish; it is an active pursuit that requires laying down arms and picking up dialogue. True communal harmony cannot exist without mutual trust, and our long-term co-existence depends entirely on treating our neighbours’ security as our own. We must remember that our distinct cultures are meant to enrich this land together, not tear it apart. The state government must immediately secure the highways, but the deeper healing belongs to the people. Kuki and Naga leaders must step forward right now, clear the roads, free the captives, and choose the path of negotiation before more innocent blood stains the soil.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 30.05.2026

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Remembering the Tagore of the Zou

THE loss of an icon often leaves a silence that words struggle to fill, and the passing of Pu Thongpao Taithul on 27 May 2026 has left just such a void in the hearts of the Zou community. Known affectionately as the ‘Rabindranath Tagore of the Zou People’, Thongpao was a true polymath whose life was a beautiful tapestry of music, literature, education, and deep faith. Born in 1935 as the eldest of seven siblings in Lungsai village, his journey was defined not by the obstacles he faced, but by how magnificently he overcame them. At just fourteen, he miraculously survived a leftover World War II shell explosion, an accident that claimed several of his teeth and resulted in the amputation of his right hand. Yet, where others might have surrendered to despair, he chose courage. With unwavering determination and the support of his loved ones, he moved forward, proving that a physical limitation could never confine a resilient human spirit.

Thongpao’s contributions to the cultural and spiritual identity of his people are immeasurable. As a gifted songwriter, lyricist, and singer, he composed anthems for MYCA, UZO, and ZSP, while also working to promote the Zoulai script alongside its creator, Pu M. Siahzathang. His professional life as a teacher, beginning in 1966 in the remote, hard-to-reach village of Phaikholum, was marked by the same quiet dedication that later saw him retire as a respected Headmaster in 2003. However, it was perhaps his role in the Zomi Inter-Confessional Bible Translation Committee between 1975 and 1983 that truly captured his legendary devotion. So driven was he to see the Holy Bible translated into his mother tongue that he famously vowed never to shave his beard until the project was complete. When the Zou Holy Bible was finally published in 1983, it stood as a monument to collective faith and linguistic unity, achieved in no small part by Thongpao’s tireless resolve.

On 28 May 2026, his funeral service was held at his native home in Zoveng, where a grateful community gathered in deep respect and honour to pay their last tributes to a man who spoke little but achieved so much. Beyond his public achievements, Thongpao was a God-fearing, exemplary father who, alongside his wife Niangsuanching, raised five children and blessed the world with eleven grandchildren. His family remains a living testament to his values, carrying forward a legacy of warmth, hospitality, and selfless social work. To look at his life is to see a masterclass in how to live with purpose, honesty, and a profound love for one’s roots.

While the Zou community mourns a monumental loss, Thongpao’s journey should serve as a powerful beacon of encouragement for us all. His life teaches us that our grandest achievements are built on daily acts of resilience, hard work, and faith. He showed that adversity does not define our destination, and that a single dedicated individual can uplift an entire culture. As we bid farewell to a man whose like may never be seen again, let us not just mourn his absence, but actively emulate his exemplary life. By choosing action over empty words and service over self, we can ensure that the light Pu Thongpao Taithul ignited continues to guide generations to come.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 29.05.2026

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Hin-Chi: Sowing Seeds of a Brighter, Greener Future

THE hills of Churachandpur are witnessing a quiet but powerful transformation through the “Hin-Chi: Seeds of Life” initiative. By moving away from the shadow of poppy cultivation, local farmers are choosing a path that offers both legal safety and long-term pride. It is truly heartening to see the Churachandpur District Police and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) go beyond mere enforcement to act as true partners in progress. This shift from policing to providing is exactly what the region needs. We must also acknowledge the vital role played by Segula Technologies and Natural Agrotech Research. Their generous contribution of ₹28,00,000 proves that when businesses in cities like Chennai step up to support rural communities, they don’t just donate money - they plant the seeds of peace and stability for the entire nation. With this support, the District Police facilitated the distribution of approximately: 55,000 kg of ginger seeds, 450 kg of pea seeds, and 6,500 banana saplings to all identified beneficiaries.

For the local families receiving these ginger seeds, pea seeds, and banana saplings, this is more than just a farming project; it is an invitation to build a secure legacy. Transitioning to sustainable cash crops means regular, honest income that isn’t tied to the risks of illegal trade or the fear of raids. To the village chiefs and the 127 households involved: your courage to change is the foundation of a healthier society. This initiative offers a chance to create Drug-Free Communities where children can grow up in an environment defined by growth rather than vice. By embracing these new crops, you are not just feeding your families today - you are ensuring a stable, resilient economy for your grandchildren tomorrow.

However, for Hin-Chi to truly blossom and not become a fleeting memory, constant support is essential. The District Collector (DC) and other administrative authorities must stay deeply involved, ensuring that farmers have easy access to irrigation, modern tools, and, most importantly, fair markets. It is not enough to simply plant the seeds; we must ensure the harvest has a profitable home. Our suggestion is to establish direct market linkages so that middlemen don’t swallow the farmers’ hard-earned profits. If the government provides consistent guidance on post-harvest management and guarantees a fair price, no farmer will ever feel the need to look back. When authorities and locals work hand-in-hand, a seed of life can truly transform a landscape of risk into a garden of resilience.

True change doesn’t come from the stroke of a pen or the force of a law; it comes from the soil up. Hin-Chi reminds us that when we replace a crop of shadows with a harvest of hope, we aren’t just changing what people grow - we are changing how they live. If we nurture these new beginnings with patience and sincerity, the Seeds of Life will grow into a forest of prosperity that protects the community for generations to come.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 28.05.2026

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India’s Racism Crisis: Why the North East is Still “Other”

A SHOCKING video from Patna railway station recently went viral, showing a group of young women from Arunachal Pradesh being harassed by a local traveler. The women, who were part of a professional troupe, were mocked with slurs like “chinki” and “momo” and even asked to prove their identity just to use a restroom. Sadly, this is not a one-off event. Just weeks ago in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, three more women from the North East were verbally abused and told to “go back to your state” following a minor argument over an air conditioner. These incidents from Patna to Delhi show that despite being fellow citizens, people from the North East are still being treated like foreigners in their own country.

The data suggests that this is a deep-rooted social disease rather than a series of accidents. For years, the northeast community has faced extreme violence, such as the tragic 2014 death of student Nido Tania in Delhi, who was beaten after protesting a racial slur. Even in 2026, reports of discrimination in housing, workplaces, and public spaces remain high. Many North Easterners living in mainland cities report that they are frequently called Nepali or Chinese because of their physical features. This “othering” creates a sense of fear and alienation, making them feel like outsiders within the very borders they call home.

To fix this, the Indian government must move beyond mere words. While laws like the IPC (BNS) have been used to file cases, they are clearly not enough of a deterrent. The government needs to fully implement the Bezbaruah Committee recommendations, which include making racial slurs a specific, non-bailable offense and setting up fast-track courts for hate crimes. Our school textbooks must be updated to include the rich history and culture of the Seven Sister states. It is a failure of our education system that a citizen in Bihar or Delhi does not recognize a person from Arunachal or Mizoram as their own.

India cannot claim to be a rising global power while its own people are scared to travel within its borders. We need a balance of strict legal action and a massive shift in our social mindset. While the police must act faster, the real change starts in our homes and classrooms, where we must learn that being Indian does not come in just one look or language. We must stop looking at the North East as a strategic border and start seeing the people who live there as equal brothers and sisters. Only then can we truly call ourselves a united nation.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 26.05.2026

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India’s Digital Frontier: The 2026 Creator Bill

THE passing of the National Creator Economy Bill 2026 by the Rajya Sabha marks a turning point in how we view work in the modern age. For years, being a YouTuber or Influencer was often dismissed as a hobby or a stroke of luck. However, with the government officially recognising these individuals as professionals, the digital wild west is finally being fenced in. This move brings a much-needed structure to a sector that has grown faster than our laws could keep up with. By introducing a Creator Welfare Fund and mandatory registration for high earners, the government is acknowledging that behind every viral video is a business that contributes significantly to the national economy.

However, this transition from internet personality to certified professional raises a thorny question: can someone be a professional without formal training? Traditional professions like law or medicine require years of university study and strict licensing. In contrast, anyone with a smartphone can become a creator. While this lack of a formal barrier allows for incredible diversity, it also means that mass media ethics such as accuracy, privacy, and accountability are often ignored in the race for views. By formalizing the industry, the government is essentially demanding that creators adopt the principles of professional journalism and broadcasting. This is a double-edged sword; while it protects consumers from misinformation and fake news, it also places a heavy burden of compliance on young individuals who may not have a legal team to help them navigate complex new regulations.

The move is undeniably a strategic play by the Government of India to bring this massive, invisible income under the tax umbrella. By mandating registration for those earning above a certain threshold, the state ensures that the digital economy contributes its fair share to the treasury. The pros are clear: creators get social security, better insurance, and legal protection against brands that refuse to pay. On the flip side, the cons involve a potential loss of the raw, organic creativity that made social media popular in the first place. If every YouTuber is treated like a news publisher, we risk a sanitized internet where creators fear expressing bold opinions due to strict government oversight.

The National Creator Economy Bill is a necessary step for a maturing digital nation, but it must be handled with care. The goal should be to provide a safety net for those who have turned their passion into a career, not to stifle the very innovation that built the industry. We must distinguish between the casual hobbyist and the professional powerhouse; not every person with a camera is a journalist, and not every viral post is a business. A balanced approach “where regulation protects the creator’s rights as much as it monitors their content” will be the only way to ensure that India’s digital stars continue to shine without losing their creative spark.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 24.05.2026 

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The Quiet Fire | Pentecost Sunday

TODAY, churches around the world are marking Pentecost Sunday, a day often called the birthday of the Christian Church. In the New Testament, specifically in the second chapter of the Book of Acts, the story unfolds fifty days after Easter. A group of ordinary, frightened disciples were gathered in a locked room in Jerusalem, unsure of what the future held. Suddenly, the Bible describes a sound like a violent rushing wind filling the house, and what looked like tongues of fire resting on each person (Acts 2:2-3). They were filled with the Holy Spirit and instantly began speaking in different languages, allowing them to connect with travellers from every corner of the known world.

At its core, Pentecost is the celebration of a divine partnership. The word itself comes from the Greek word for “fiftieth”, referencing the time elapsed since the Resurrection. Before this event, the disciples were essentially in hiding, paralyzed by fear and grief. The arrival of the Holy Spirit changed everything, fulfilling Jesus’ earlier promise in the Gospel of John to send a Helper or Comforter (John 14:16-17). It was not just a spectacular display of cosmic special effects; it was a profound shift in how humans interact with the divine. Instead of looking to an external, distant power, the disciples realized that God’s presence was now living within them, transforming their fear into an unstoppable courage to serve others.

While it is an ancient religious festival, the implications of Pentecost are incredibly relevant for our modern, fractured world. We live in an era where people speak the same language yet completely fail to understand one another. Social media and modern life often lock us into our own echo chambers, much like that room in Jerusalem. Pentecost challenges us to break out of those walls, echoing the Apostle Paul’s later message to the Corinthians that the Spirit brings unity amidst great diversity (1 Corinthians 12:12-13). It reminds us that true spirituality is not about escaping reality, but about finding the internal strength to build bridges across deep cultural, political, and social divides. It calls us to listen deeply and speak words that heal rather than harm.

Pentecost offers an insightful reminder that transformation starts from the inside out. We often wait for external circumstances to change before we find peace or purpose, but the story of the Holy Spirit suggests that the spark we need is already accessible within us, producing what Galatians 5:22 calls the fruit of love, joy, and peace. It invites us to examine our own lives and ask what needs to be set ablaze, whether that is a cold heart that needs empathy, or a stagnant routine that needs new passion. By opening ourselves up to this quiet, internal fire, we find the strength to change our own lives and, in turn, gently change the world around us.

~ TBCD NEWSLETTER | PENTECOST SUNDAY | 24.05.2026

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Tragic Lamka Crash Claims Wife's Life

A tragic car crash in Lamka town on Friday night, 22 May 2026, has left a husband critically injured and sadly taken the life of his wife.

Our hearts go out to the family during this time of immense grief and sorrow; may she rest in peace. This devastating loss is a painful reminder of how fragile life is.

Please, let's take extra care on the roads to protect ourselves and others. Our roads should be a safe way to stay connected, not a place of danger and heartbreak. We urge everyone to stay alert, slow down, and drive responsibly. We also call on the local administration and concerned authorities to urgently raise awareness about road safety. Let's work together to prevent another tragedy.

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CJI’s Remarks: A Blow to India’s Youth

WHEN the highest judicial officer in the country speaks, the nation listens. On 15 May 2026, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant triggered widespread conversation when he used provocative analogies during a courtroom hearing. Addressing a lawyer pursuing senior status, the CJI pulled up individuals allegedly attacking the legal system through social media. He remarked: “There are already parasites of society who attack the system and you want to join hands with them? There are youngsters like cockroaches, who don’t get any employment and don’t have any place in profession. Some of them become media, some of them become social media, some of them become RTI activists, some of them become other activists, and they start attacking everyone… and you people file contempt petitions!”

The choice of the word “cockroaches” from the highest bench represents a jarring departure from traditional judicial restraint. While the CJI clarified on May 16 that his oral observations were misquoted and meant specifically to call out individuals entering noble professions with fake, fraudulent degrees rather than the honest youth of India, the initial sting remains a vital talking point. In a country where the Supreme Court is looked upon as the ultimate shield for the common person, using words historically associated with extreme dehumanization highlights a profound friction between institutional frustration and public perception.

This outburst carries complex sociological weights when viewed against the backdrop of India’s current youth demographic. Born on 10 Feb 1962, Justice Surya Kant rose from humble roots to become a first-generation lawyer, assuming office as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on 24 Nov 2025, with his retirement scheduled for Feb 9, 2027. Yet, the generation he addresses today faces a grim economic landscape. India boasts a massive youth population, with individuals aged 15-29 making up nearly 27.5% of the total population. This represents a massive reservoir of human aspiration, but it is simultaneously a group bearing the structural brunt of severe joblessness.

In a defiant response to being called vermin, the youth launched a historic digital movement: the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). Founded by activist Abhijeet Dipke on 16 May 2026, the movement became an instant sensation. By May 21, 2026, the CJP’s Instagram following skyrocketed to over 14.5 million, dwarfing the BJP’s 8.8 million. The movement represents “4 Days of Gen Z Energy” against “46 Years of Political Legacy”. Even after their X handle was withheld on May 21, the momentum only grew, proving that these “cockroaches” are resilient survivors of economic rot.

Such demeaning language from the highest seat of the judiciary is entirely unacceptable and must be strongly condemned by every Indian. When the sworn guardian of the Constitution strips struggling, jobless citizens of basic human dignity by branding them as “parasites” or “cockroaches”, it betrays an alarming disconnect from reality and an intolerance for public dissent. Unemployment is a structural failure of the state, not a moral crime committed by its victims. The citizens of India must collectively reject this harmful rhetoric and demand that those holding ultimate power remember they are accountable to the people.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 22.05.2026

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India Aims for Insurgency-Free Northeast by 2029 Deadline

THE Indian government has set its sights on a significant milestone: making the Northeast insurgency-free by 2029. After seeing real progress in reducing Maoist violence in other parts of the country, the focus has now shifted to the beautiful but often troubled states like Manipur, Assam, and Nagaland. It is a bold move that involves moving elite security forces, such as the specialized CoBRA units, into these areas once their current duties elsewhere are finished. This isn’t just about moving soldiers around; it’s a clear signal that the authorities are ready to wrap up decades of unrest and bring a lasting sense of security to the region.

Manipur is right at the heart of this new plan, and for good reason. Officials have made it the priority because it remains the most affected state, accounting for a staggering 77% of all insurgency cases in the Northeast in 2024. The numbers tell a tough story: out of the 16 active insurgent groups in the entire region, Manipur alone is home to eight of them. In comparison, Assam has three, while Meghalaya and Tripura have two each, and Nagaland has one. With 226 insurgency-related cases reported in Manipur last year - the highest in the region - the government is sending in bulletproof vehicles and extra kit to ensure the safety of both the public and the officers on the ground.

What makes this strategy interesting is that it doesn’t just look at the fighting. There is a deep understanding now that insurgency is often kept alive by dirty money, specifically from the drug trade. By bringing in the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to work alongside the police, the government is trying to cut off the oxygen that keeps these armed groups going. It’s a bit like fixing a leaky tap; you can’t just keep mopping the floor, you have to find the source of the water. By hitting the smuggling networks that fund these groups, they hope to make it impossible for them to continue their operations.

As we look toward 2029, the goal is about more than just ending conflict; it’s about opening the door for the Northeast to finally thrive. When people feel safe, businesses grow, schools flourish, and tourism can take off. This five-year deadline is ambitious, but it provides a clear roadmap for a region that has waited a long time for stability. If this plan succeeds, the Northeast will no longer be seen through the lens of troubled borders, but rather as a vibrant, peaceful gateway to the rest of Asia.

Setting a deadline like 2029 is a double-edged sword. While it shows strong political will, true peace in the Northeast requires more than just moving troops and arresting smugglers. The real victory will come when the local communities feel that their voices are heard and their futures are secure. Security forces can clear the path, but lasting peace is built on trust, development, and the healing of old wounds. If the government can balance its tough security measures with genuine empathy and local investment, 2029 might truly mark the beginning of a golden era for the region.

(This is a live RPG along with live ammunition found near the site of the bomb attack that took place on 7 April 2026 at Tronglaobi near Moirang in Bishnupur district, Manipur, India. The blast struck a civilian house at around 1:00 a.m., resulting in the death of two children and leaving their mother critically injured.)

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 21.05.2026

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Unity and Digital Ethics in Lamka’s Future

THE recent joint meeting between the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and the Zomi Re-unification Organisation (ZRO) marks a vital step toward stability in our region. On 11 May 2026, leaders gathered at the ZRO President’s residence to address the most pressing issues facing our community today. It was a moment of reflection and resolve, reaffirming the shared political goal of a Union Territory with its own Legislature. While the debate over nomenclature “whether we call ourselves Kuki-Zo or Kuki-Zomi” continues with a spirit of mutual respect, the core message was clear: unity is our strongest asset, and our political path remains firm despite the complexities of tribal identity.

However, the most significant outcome of this meeting was the focus on a modern threat: communal disharmony spread through social media. In the vibrant town of Lamka, where Kuki, Mizo, Zomi, and Hmar communities live side-by-side, the digital world has often become a battlefield. Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram are being used by a few ill-intentioned individuals to “pour oil on the fire”. By spreading fake news and communal vitriol, these hate-mongers create panic and distrust. The formation of a Joint Monitoring Cell by the KNO and ZRO is a welcome move to curb this digital toxicity and ensure that our shared peace is not shattered by a viral message or a misleading post.

To truly fix this, we cannot rely on political leaders alone. There is an urgent need for a massive boost in cyber security and digital awareness across our town. Our youth are constantly glued to their phones, often unaware of how easily they can be manipulated by misinformation. It is time for government agencies and the police to step up and host workshops on cyber ethics. We need to teach our children and ourselves how to spot a fake story before hitting the “share” button. When the truth is distorted, the entire community suffers, and the only way to prevent this is to build a culture of caution where every internet user verifies facts before believing them.

The responsibility also lies with our most trusted institutions: the church and our tribe-based NGOs. These organisations hold the moral authority to guide the community toward a more responsible use of technology. We must move away from the “panic culture” where every incident is instantly broadcast with a communal twist. Instead, we should foster a spirit of patience and truth-seeking. By working together, from the highest political offices to the local church pews, we can ensure that our digital tools are used to build our future rather than tear our society apart.

The path to a peaceful Union Territory is paved not just with political agreements, but with digital integrity. In an age where a single false post can undo months of peace-building, our greatest act of resistance against disharmony is critical thinking. By treating every viral message with a healthy dose of doubt, we protect the unity of Lamka from those who wish to divide us from behind a screen.

~ Zogam Today | Editorial | 20.05.2026

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The Guardian Angel of Lengpui Airport

 The Unique Coffin Ministry of Mizoram 

PERCHED atop rocky mountains, Mizoram offers breathtaking landscapes that are mesmerizing to travellers. Yet, beyond its natural beauty, the state holds a deeply compassionate peculiarity - something rarely found anywhere else in the world. 

For travellers landing at Mizoram’s Lengpui Airport, the first introduction to this unique cultural warmth often comes in the form of a dedicated airport chaplain. For nearly three decades, this ministry has been devoted to helping, consoling, and praying for travellers, particularly those arriving on the most painful journeys: accompanying the mortal remains of their loved ones.

Whenever a coffin arrives at Lengpui Airport, the chaplain steps forward to hold a brief fellowship right at the arrival terminal. He reads comforting Bible verses and offers prayers for the bereaved families and relatives. In heartbreaking instances where no one is present to receive the deceased, the chaplain himself steps in, tenderly covering the coffin with a traditional Mizo shawl to ensure the departed is honoured. 

On 11 March 2026 at 1:48 PM, Major Biakthuama read from John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” He summed up the passage beautifully: “There is peace if we have Christ. If we have Christ, that is all we need.” He also quoted from Ephesians 2:6, sharing that God has “raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus”. In his short message and prayer, the Major deeply touched our hearts and brought a sense of true peace to our minds. 

The body was respectfully covered with a traditional Zou Puanlaisan shawl
by the Zou Welfare Aizawl, along with Nu Zovi (Pu H. Thanga) and her sisters on 11 March 2026 .

This extraordinary airport chaplaincy began alongside the inauguration of Lengpui Airport on 12 December 1998. From its very inception, the ministry has been solely undertaken and funded by the Salvation Army Mizoram Territory. 

The current chaplain carrying the mantle of this heavy yet vital service is Major K. Biakthuama, who is now 71 years old. 

Major Biakthuama’s journey into the ministry began decades ago when he completed a two-year theological programme at the Salvation Army Training College in Kolasib, Mizoram, spanning from 1985 to 1987. He was ordained as a minister in April 1987 and dedicated his life to the church, eventually retiring with the rank of Major in 2019 at the age of 63. 

Though officially retired, his calling never ended. After briefly serving in a temporary capacity late last year October-November, he was officially re-employed as the airport chaplain in March of this year. While his wife, his seven children (six daughters and one son), and his grandchildren all live healthily in the capital city of Aizawl, the Major chooses to rent a house in Lengpui to be right beside his station. Because Lengpui Airport is located about 32 km away from Aizawl, living locally ensures he can serve the people immediately during their darkest hours. 

The ministry’s importance has grown immeasurably in recent years due to geopolitical and regional crises. It is undeniable that the Chin, Kuki, Mizo, Zomi, Kachin, and Karen communities belong to the exact same stock. Although the Zo people are today divided by three international boundaries, it was not so before India’s independence, and their deep-rooted kinship remains unbroken. Across the border, Myanmar has been reeling under turbulent violence between the Military Junta (SAC) forces and PDF civilian fighters since the February 2021 military coup. As a result, a large number of Myanmar’s Zo people have sought refuge in Mizoram, which currently houses a bulk of their cousins. 

Zou leaders visited Sye Lalbawi at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi on 8 March 2026.

Closer to home, the Meitei-Kuki ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in May 2023 has left a devastating toll. So far, over 228 Kuki-Zo lives have been lost, 200 villages burned, 7,000 houses destroyed, and more than 360 churches andsynagogues razed. Over 41,425 Kuki-Zo individuals have been displaced, with many landing in Mizoram. 

Once, the Kuki-Zo people loved Imphal city, but today it has become a valley of death; no Kuki-Zos live in this Meitei-dominated city anymore. For the Kuki-Zos, Imphal is now the capital of death, and they can no longer access its hospitals or airport. Consequently, Aizawl has become the safest city and the “Jerusalem” for all Zo people living across India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. 

 Mr Hausuonlal Suontah @ Sye Lalbawi (1977–2026), a professional musician, 
passed away after a prolonged illness at Safdarjung Hospital on March 9 
and was finally laid to rest on March 12.

Though Aizawl is physically a long distance away: taking a minimum of 12 hours by road to travel from Lamka, it is emotionally much closer to the hearts of Manipur’s Kuki-Zos. Because of this displacement, flight and train services via Mizoram have become absolutely inevitable for the Zo people, leading to a massive increase in passenger footfall. Many who have succumbed to medical illnesses or unfortunate circumstances while away from home are brought back through this route. No matter who they are, Major Biakthuama is there to meet their coffins with a short scripture reading and a prayer of solace. 

Remarkably, this essential service receives no financial assistance from the state government, nor does it receive funding from commercial airlines like IndiGo. It remains entirely sponsored by the Salvation Army, relying purely on faith, community support, and the devotion of its chaplain.  

Reflecting on his profound daily duty, Major Biakthuama simply smiles and says:

“I have devotional prayers every morning before I begin my work. Sharing the word of God and praying for others - that is my job.”

~ Bruce K. Thangkhal

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Manipur: 33 AR CO’s Viral Status Sparks Reflection on Violence

THE Commanding Officer of 33 Assam Rifles recently shared a WhatsApp status, now viral on social media, that read: “Jesus was crucified for peace but here followers of him are killing and kidnapping each other.”

His words carry a deep meaning at this painful moment.

The 33 Assam Rifles is one of the major battalions working in the conflict-hit areas of Nagaland and Manipur. Their officers often witness the suffering of ordinary people caught in violence and fear.

Since the shocking killing of three Kuki pastors on the morning of 13 May 2026, tensions between Kukis and Nagas have grown sharply. Innocent civilians from both communities were taken captive during the conflict. It leaves many people asking the same question — what wrong have these ordinary men and women done to deserve such suffering?

Both sides are still demanding the release of the remaining captives. It is heartbreaking to see tribal Christian communities, who once worshipped together under the same faith, now trapped in anger, hatred, and revenge.

If we look back at history, Christianity first reached Manipur through missionary William Pettigrew in the late 19th century. In 1896, after restrictions in Imphal, he moved to Ukhrul and began working among the Tangkhul Nagas. Over time, many Nagas and Kukis accepted Christianity, and the message of peace, love, and forgiveness slowly spread across the hills. The Gospel was planted with hope and sacrifice.

But today, it feels as though the true spirit of that message is fading away. Instead of peace in the name of Christ, people are taking up hatred in the name of tribe and community.

Where are we heading now?

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🙏✨ TBC (ABA) DELHI – YOUTH SUNDAY ✨🙏

 🙏✨ TBC (ABA) DELHI – YOUTH SUNDAY ✨🙏

📅 17.05.2026 | ⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

🪑 Hunkem: Tg. Chinsuanlam

🎤 Hunhong: Lia Chingdeikim

🎶 Praise & Worship 🎶

📖 Bible Recitation:

1️⃣ Sunday School Naupang te 👧🧒

2️⃣ Nute 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦

🗣️ Message:

✝️ Pa Densil Samte

🎵 Lasakna: Tg. Suanlianlal

🙏 Khanglaite Thumsakna:

⛪ Pastor Thangdoulal, Local Pastor

🎶 Lasakna:

🌸 Nu Rebecca Neikhochiin

💝 Thawhlom Donna: Usher te

📖 Thawhlom Latna: Local Pastor

📢 Phuannop Hun: Pawlpi toh kisai

🤝 Vote of Thanks:

Tg. Alex Hangminlian

🎵 Phatna La: Mipi

🙏 Tawpna Thumna:

Pa Hanglamthang

🍛☕ Refreshment --- Refreshment ! 🍰🥤

👔 USHER FOR MAY

🔹 Tg. Thangmuanlian

🔹 Lia Chiindeikim 😊

PHOTO ALBUM

***

🙏✨ We humbly thank God for His countless blessings, 

endless grace, and faithful love upon our lives. 🌿💖🙌

***

VIDEOS

-- Click the links --

TBCD Youth Sunday:  Nute

TBCD Youth Sunday:  Naupangte

TBCD Youth Sunday:  Nu Rebecca Chichiin

TBCD Youth Sunday: Tg. Suanlianlal

💙💚💛

TBCD Youth Day 2026: Games

TBCD YOUTH DAY SPORTS 2026 | PHOTO ALBUM

TBCD Youth Day 2026 | Tug of War: Papi vs Tangval | Photo Album

TBCD Youth Day 2026 Football: Nupi vs Nungak

TBCD Youth Day 2026 Football Match 1: Papi vs Tangval

TBCD Youth Day 2026 Football Match 2: Papi vs Tangval

! Thank You, Lord !

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