SHILLONG: National People’s Youth Front (NPYF) National President Nickey Nongkhlaw has raised concern over reported attacks on Christians ahead of Christmas, stating that the matter has been formally conveyed in writing through National People’s Party (NPP) National President and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
Speaking to the media, Nongkhlaw said he has urged that the issue be taken seriously and escalated to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for appropriate action.
Nongkhlaw described the reported incidents as the result of actions by a few misguided individuals who, he said, lack a proper understanding of India’s constitutional principle of secularism. He stressed that such acts should not be allowed to disrupt communal harmony in the country.
He further observed that people from the North Eastern region are often subjected to discrimination, despite their long-standing tradition of respecting and honouring the religious practices of other communities. He pointed out that religious celebrations and rituals, including pujas, have always been conducted peacefully in the region without any interference.
Nongkhlaw also noted that several members of the Hindu community have publicly condemned the actions of certain individuals associated with organisations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal. He said many have taken to social media to clarify that such acts do not reflect the sentiments of the wider Hindu community.
