A Village Under Siege: The Trials of a Christian Dreamer in Paraolon, India
Our dreamer Matthew in Paraolon Village, India
Introduction
Paraolon, India, is a small village caught in the crossfire of intense ethnic and religious conflict, profoundly impacting its Christian community, including our dreamer, Matthew, who faces persecution due to his faith. This article explores the turbulent history of these clashes, the ongoing struggles, and the harsh realities of life in Paraolon.
A History of Conflict: 1993 to 2015
The violence in the region has deep roots, beginning in the early 1990s. On April 15th, 1993, Matt's village was devastated during a severe ethnic and religious conflict. This tragic event forced Matt and his community into refugee status, abandoning their homes and lives as they knew them.
By 2015, the violence had intensified, particularly targeting Christians. Attacks on churches, Christian institutions, and individuals were part of a broader strategy by extremist groups to suppress minority communities. Local authorities often exacerbated the situation, leaving Christians without protection or justice.
The hills of Manipur
Articles such as "No Sign of Life in This Manipur Village," "Manipur Ambush Village Lies Totally Deserted," and "War Zone Memories Haunt Kuki Villagers" describe Paraolon and its surroundings as devastated and struggling to recover, with the village frequently depicted as almost a "ghost village."
These tragedies are part of a broader campaign of violence and ethnic cleansing that, in recent decades, has seen over 350 Kuki villages destroyed and more than 60,000 people displaced. The violence, fueled by ethnic differences and political maneuvering, has left lasting scars on the region (Scroll.in, The New Indian Express).
Modern-Day Paraolon: Living in Faith
Today, Paraolon remains precarious. The conflict between the predominantly Hindu Meitei community and the Christian minority has escalated, especially since the early 2020s. Christians, including Matt, continue to face harassment, violence, and even death. The ongoing uprising has intensified the tension and uncertainty in the village.
The violence has made even basic tasks like obtaining food perilous. Many Christians have fled, while others live in constant fear of being targeted. Churches, once safe havens, have been desecrated, further demoralizing the Christian community. The Indian government faces criticism for failing to protect these vulnerable populations, with accusations of complicity in the violence.
“A displaced tribal Kuki boy looks out from a window of a relief camp following ethnic clashes and rioting, in Churachandpur, in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, Tuesday, June 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)”
The Cost of Perseverance
For Matt, holding onto his faith amidst these challenges is immensely costly. Despite living under constant threat, he remains committed to improving his community, demonstrating resilience and courage.
Matt shares:
"Our village is located at the border between India and Myanmar. During the ethnic clash in 1993, we lost our dearest ones and our properties. Since then, we have lived under traumatic fears and have struggled to recover. We faced an economic crisis, political corruption, and educational challenges. Now, we are facing another ethnic clash that affects every aspect of our lives.
Yet, amidst the turmoil, we have never backed down. We have fasted and prayed, asking God for forgiveness and restoration. God answered our prayers and restored our land. In every difficulty, God has remained faithful. We know there is no place to hide from this turmoil, and we are fully dependent on our living God, in whom there is eternal hope.”
In response to these challenges, Matt dreams of establishing a community market in Paraolon. This market would provide safety, security, and meet the basic needs of the people, creating stability amidst chaos.
Matthew’s sisters: Shang Meng and Rose
Building a Market for Safety and Prosperity
Village Reach is partnering with Matt to build and run a community market. This initiative aims to enhance safety and security by offering a local source of essential goods, reducing the need for dangerous journeys to distant towns. The market will alleviate economic burdens by providing affordable goods and creating local employment opportunities. It will also foster stability and normalcy, offering a safe space for residents to gather and trade.
Through this project, Village Reach seeks to offer more than just economic support. We aim to provide hope and tangible improvements in quality of life for Paraolon’s people. By working with Matt and other community members, we are committed to creating a secure and thriving environment where the dreams of our Christian brothers and sisters can be nurtured and realized.
Conclusion
Village Reach has a history of impactful partnerships, and our collaboration with Matthew on the Chicken Farm project is a testament to that legacy. Completed and sustaining, the Chicken Farm has empowered six families, providing them with economic stability and hope. This success fuels our optimism for the upcoming Community Market project, which aims to further enhance the safety and prosperity of Paraolon Village. As we continue to support Matthew's vision, we remain hopeful that the market will bring lasting change and security to his village.
Some of the chickens Village Reach has sponsored as a part of the Chicken Farm project
Call to Action
To learn more about our mission in Paraolon Village and Matthew's inspiring work, visit our dedicated mission page. Your support can make a significant difference. Consider donating to help us bring Matthew’s dream of a community market to life and continue transforming lives in Paraolon. Every contribution helps us build a brighter future for those in need.
