Photo Essay: Bnei Menashe – a people in crisis
It is now closing in on six weeks of ethnic violence that has devastated the Bnei Menashe community in Manipur in northeast India, with no end in sight.
A total of 292 Bnei Menashe families (numbering 1,190 men, women and children) have been forced to flee their homes in the past few weeks since the violence began between the Meitei and Kuki tribes and most of these have been left homeless and destitute.
We continue to be deeply concerned and are doing everything we can to provide their needs and to ease this difficult time. Some of our staff on the ground in India have taken these poignant photos to share their situation.
Instead of school and open space, the children are confined to a small corner in the relief centers…
Arrival of another batch of displaced Bnei Menashe at the Shavei Israel relief center. Every week the number of displaced are growing and the conditions at the relief camp is worrisome.
Some of the displaced Bnei Menashe at the relief center
The youth from a Shavei relief center preparing challah for Shabbat
Displaced Bnei Menashe women reading Tehillim (Psalms) at a Shavei Israel relief center.
Shavei Israel buying essential items for the displaced Bnei Menashe who are their relief center
Leaders who work round the clock at the Shavei Israel relief center.
The arrival of food items at Shavei Israel relief center.
Deputy Commissioner (Mayor) of Churachandpur Mr. Sharath Chandra Arroju visiting Shavei Israel relief center at B. Vengnom.
The displaced Bnei Menashe receiving food from Shavei Israel for the 2nd time at the Shavei Israel relief center.
Recieving of food and other essential commodities from Shavei Israel.
Gearing up for the 2nd round of food supply to all the community within Churachandpur provided by Shavei Israel.
Shabbat preparation
Beith Hallel Community recieving the 2nd installment of relief material from Shavei Israel.
Food and other essential items for Boljol community for the 2nd time with the help of Shavei Israel.
Beith Shalom Zohar receiving the 2nd round of food and other commodities from Shavei Israel.
Beith Shalom Matiyang community receiving 2nd installment of food and essentials commodities from Shavei Israel.
Children receiving much needed nutrition at the Shavei Israel relief center.
They finally start to smile after a very long time. Those smiles where shadowed by fear, sorrow and running for a safer place. Finally they get some peace of mind at the Shavei Israel relief center.
Displaced Bnei Menashe at a Shavei Israel relief center
We are doing whatever we can. You can help! Please make your generous donation to: Bnei Menashe Relief Fund.
Photo credit: Samuel Vaiphei and Rafi Tungnung