The Archbishop of Canterbury has issued a statement in the wake of ongoing attacks on churches in Manipur, India.

It’s believed almost 300 churches have been burned down in recent weeks, according to the latest figures from the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF).

According to state authorities, up to 45,000 people have been displaced. Church associations report that over a hundred villages have been destroyed.

It’s believed the violence has broken out following a protest over employment and education benefits, staged by students from the mostly Christian Kuki tribe.

Taking to Twitter, Most Rev Justin Welby said: “I’ve been distressed to hear about the attacks on the indigenous tribal Christians of Manipur, India, and of the churches that have been destroyed in recent weeks.

“Kailean Khongsai is training for ordination to the priesthood in the Church of England, and is from Manipur. I join him in praying regional authorities would protect all minority groups, including Christians and their places of worship, and that justice and peace would prevail.”

Two days ago, a politican’s Imphal home was attacked by a mob, in connection with the ongoing violence.

Police sprayed tear gas into the crowd and fired bullets into the sky in order to bring the issue under control, Manipur news outlets report.