Menkato V Awomi
Dimapur
For over 30 years, Pastor John Roughton has dedicated his life to the service of Nagaland, a land he has come to call home. Married to Zhepitoli Roughton, a proud Naga woman, and a father to three children, Pastor John has built his life around a mission of faith, love, and transformation. Holding Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI), Pastor John has not only lived in Nagaland with legal sanction but also embraced its culture and people with open arms, becoming one of the region’s most respected figures.
On October 31, 2024, however, a shocking incident unfolded. Upon arriving in India after his routine visit to the USA, Pastor John was detained for 45 minutes at the airport. Without any clear explanation or due process, he was denied entry and sent back to the USA on the same flight. This unprecedented action, which separates a father and husband from his family and disrupts a mission of peace and service, raises serious questions about justice and transparency.
A Life Dedicated to Nagaland
Pastor John’s journey to Nagaland began over three decades ago when he left the comforts of his life in the USA, driven by a divine calling. His decision to move to Nagaland was not an easy one, but it was born out of obedience to a higher purpose. At a time when Nagaland was grappling with significant challenges—both social and spiritual—Pastor John became a guiding light.
His mission was simple yet profound: to instill love, foster unity, and inspire a life of integrity based on godly principles. Through his teachings and service, he emphasized the importance of loving one another, living morally upright lives, and respecting governmental authority. These principles were not just preached but lived, as Pastor John consistently demonstrated respect for Indian laws and regulations throughout his time in Nagaland.
Through his work, Pastor John has not only strengthened the spiritual fabric of the state but also helped to bridge cultural divides between Nagaland, mainland India, and the international community. His ministry has played a key role in transforming Nagaland into a welcoming and harmonious place, encouraging visitors from across the world to experience its beauty and culture.
Nagaland’s Journey and Pastor John’s Role
Nagaland’s history has not been without its challenges. Once plagued by practices that created unease even among mainland Indians, the state was in desperate need of spiritual and social revival. Over time, various movements of transformation began to take root, but sustaining this progress required committed leaders.
Among the handful of individuals who answered this call, Pastor John stood out as a beacon of hope. His work has laid a strong foundation for peace, unity, and morality in Nagaland, influencing countless lives across all age groups and backgrounds. Through his mission, Pastor John has helped Nagaland achieve a remarkable transformation from a troubled past to a state known for its warmth, hospitality, and spiritual vibrancy.
The Unjust Denial of Entry
For decades, Pastor John has lived a life of integrity, free from any criminal charges or controversies. His annual visits to the USA to reconnect with his family have always been followed by a joyous return to Nagaland, particularly to celebrate Christmas with his church and community. This year, however, his routine was met with an unexpected and unjust disruption.
On October 31, 2024, after landing in India, Pastor John was detained without explanation. Despite holding an OCI card, which legally permits him to reside in India, he was denied entry and forced to return to the USA on the same flight. The lack of clarity and justification behind this action is deeply troubling, not only for Pastor John and his family but also for the community that has long benefitted from his leadership and guidance.
The Impact of the Decision
The denial of Pastor John’s entry is not just a personal tragedy—it is a loss for Nagaland and India as a whole. Pastor John has been a bridge-builder, fostering understanding and cooperation between India and the USA. His presence in Nagaland has been a source of inspiration, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled.
For a man who has sacrificed so much to serve Nagaland, this treatment is not only unjust but also a betrayal of the values of hospitality and fairness that India stands for. Separating a father and husband from his family without reason is a violation of basic human rights, and the disruption of his mission undermines the progress and harmony he has worked so hard to achieve.
A Call for Justice
It is imperative that the Government of India reviews this situation with urgency and transparency. Pastor John Roughton’s contributions to Nagaland and India deserve recognition, not rejection. His unwavering commitment to upholding Indian laws and his role in fostering peace and unity make the denial of his entry an affront to justice and fairness.
We urge the authorities to reconsider their decision, provide a clear explanation for this incident, and ensure that Pastor John is allowed to return to Nagaland, his home for the past 30 years. Justice must prevail, and the legacy of love, faith, and service that Pastor John has built must be allowed to continue.
This is not just about one man—it is about the values we uphold as a society and the message we send to those who dedicate their lives to serving others. Let us stand together to ensure that justice is served and that Pastor John Roughton is reunited with his family and community in Nagaland.
