By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 10: The Khasi Jaintia Christian Leaders Forum (KJCLF) on Wednesday celebrated its silver jubilee, reflecting on its journey as a key peace-building force during the turbulent years of militancy in Meghalaya.
Formed at the height of unrest in 2000, the then Shillong Khasi-Jaintia Church Leaders’ Forum (SKJCLF) emerged in response to the growing sense of fear, insecurity, and violent conflict that gripped the city. The forum adopted its present name, KJCLF, on December 30, 2020 to better represent its identity and expand cooperation among Christian leaders.
During the early 2000s, Meghalaya witnessed frequent bandhs, curfews, and escalation of violence as militant activities peaked. In this atmosphere of uncertainty, church leaders recognised the urgent need for coordinated leadership to restore peace and trust in society.
Talking to The Shillong Times on the sidelines of the silver jubilee programme, KJCLF secretary Rev Edwin H Kharkongor recalled that the year 2000 was marked by deep conflict and disruptions, affecting governance and resulting in the loss of lives.
Youth groups and various community organisations were emotionally charged and active, further highlighting the need for a neutral peace initiative.
The church leaders first came together under the banner of Committee of Shillong Church Leaders. Recognising the need for a structured intervention, they formed a Drafting Committee which, on November 22, 2000, formally established the SKJCLF.
Between 2002 and 2003, the forum played a decisive and constructive role in conflict resolution. The efforts were recognised by the state government, which appointed the forum as its official negotiator with proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC). The forum made continuous attempts to bring the outfit to the negotiating table.
It appealed to the government to initiate dialogues with the HNLC as well as the A•chik National Volunteer Council, calling for a ceasefire, safe passage for the rebels, and the creation of a rehabilitation framework for former insurgents.
Despite strong resistance from the HNLC at the time, the forum offered to persuade the group to join peace talks. Its neutral, non-political stance enabled it to work closely with both the government and community groups to reduce tensions and foster reconciliation.
The government further invited the forum to be a part of the Rehabilitation Advisory Committee, where its members frequently visited rehabilitation centres to counsel the surrendered militants and pray with them.
Over the years, as peace gradually returned to the state, the forum continued its role as a moral anchor—conducting prayer meetings, issuing statements on law-and-order challenges, and promoting unity and harmony.
Its activities included statewide prayer gatherings, Independence Day and Christmas fellowships, intercessory meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic, and advocacy on social issues such as opposing the opening of casinos in Meghalaya.
The KJCLF credits diverse supporters — churches, choirs, community leaders, district authorities, ADF India, MLAs, journalists, and youth organisations — for sustaining its mission.
Meanwhile, the silver jubilee celebration held at Bianchi Hall, Laitumkhrah, was chaired by KJCLF president Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh. Vice president Rev Dr Purely Lyngdoh reflected on the forum’s 25-year journey, while Fr John Madur shared a historical account of its formation. Member RO Wallang outlined the forum’s future vision.
Rev Kharkongor reiterated that the KJCLF remains committed to being a voice for peace, mutual respect, unity, and cooperation — especially during times of conflict or misunderstanding.
As the KJCLF marks 25 years, its legacy as a bridge of peace during Meghalaya’s darkest periods stands as a reminder of the significant role faith-based leadership can play in conflict transformation and community healing.
