Saturday, June 17, 2023

India's Bnei Menashe community in crisis as ethnic violence burns synagogues and displaces hundreds

India is widely known for its incredible religious tolerance. However, there are times when it is tested or worse even failing.

The amazing Jewish diaspora!

This happened in the northeast state of Manipur.

The violence does not appear to be directed at Jews, but this Jewish community appears to be associated with another minority involved in the violence.

"... Everything changed on May 3, when rioting broke out between the ethnic majority Meiteis and the tribal minority Kukis, a violent conflagration that had been building up for years. ...
According to Shavei Israel, an NGO that helps “lost tribe” Jewish communities immigrate to Israel, over 1,000 members of the community, or 20% of their total, have been displaced. One community member was killed, and another was shot in the chest and is hospitalized. Two synagogues and mikvahs, or ritual baths, were burned down. ...
“This is one of the gravest crises the Bnei Menashe in India have ever experienced,” said Michael Freund, who has been chairman of Shavei Israel since he founded the organization in 2002. ...
Citing the government’s failure to protect them, Kukis have called for separation from the state of Manipur. As the conflict stretches into its second month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has yet to comment on the crisis in his country’s northeast. ..."

India's Bnei Menashe community in crisis as ethnic violence burns synagogues and displaces hundreds - Jewish Telegraphic Agency



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