KOHIMA, DECEMBER 30 (MExN): The Ex-Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN) has strongly condemned the reported attacks and acts of violence against Christians and churches during the Christmas season in various parts of the country, calling them unacceptable in a secular democratic nation.
In a statement, the association said incidents of religious intolerance against Christians were not new, but expressed concern that a large number of people and churches were allegedly attacked and harassed during the festive period this time.
Stating that such incidents have tarnished the country’s image, Ex-PAN said it was deeply disturbing that acts of threat, violence and harassment were reported even as Christmas was being celebrated globally as a festival of peace and joy.
The association appealed to the Prime Minister and the Government of India to take immediate steps to ensure that religious intolerance is curbed across the country. It said protecting the life and rights of every citizen, irrespective of religion, was the foremost duty of the government.
Referring to secularism as a core constitutional principle, Ex-PAN said it must be practised in letter and spirit and not merely remain a constitutional ideal. It added that intolerance towards minority Christians, particularly during a major religious festival, was a matter of serious concern.
The association also expressed shock and anger over the recent killing of Anjel Chakma, a tribal student from Tripura who was studying in Dehradun. It said the incident, allegedly involving racial violence, was highly alarming and condemnable.
Ex-PAN said violence and harassment on racial lines, especially against people from the North Eastern Region, had been increasing over the years and asserted that race or appearance does not define citizenship. It said people from the region have contributed significantly to nation-building and deserve equal treatment.
Calling the rise in racial attacks a serious issue, the association urged the Government of India to address the matter with urgency and ensure the safety and security of students and residents from the North East living across the country.
Ex-PAN also called upon citizens to condemn violence and work collectively to uphold unity in diversity. The association conveyed condolences to the family of Anjel Chakma and expressed hope that they would find strength in this time of grief.
