DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 12 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has denounced the recent decision by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to schedule the date of vote counting for the upcoming bye election to Tapi AC on December 3, Sunday.
“This contentious choice, which has been a matter of debate ever since the BJP assumed office, has raised concerns over the potential disregard for the religious practice and beliefs of the Christian community,” a press release from the NSF stated.
It said that as Sunday holds deep significance for the Christians worldwide as a day of worship, reflection and strengthening the faith of the Christians, the decision to set the state assembly election counting on a Sunday appears to “disregard the sanctity of this day for the Christian community.”
Further, the NSF questioned the Indian Government’s rational for imposing official activities, events and programmes time and again on a day that carries religious significance for many of the citizens. “The decision seems to underscore lack of consideration for religious diversity and contradicts the foundation principles of equality and secularism that our democracy upholds,” it observed.
The NSF expressed concern at what it termed as “the perception of a communal stance displayed by the Central Government, which seems to disproportionately affect the Christian faith and practice.” In a diverse and multicultural country like India, it is imperative that the government uphold respect for the religious beliefs and practices of all its citizens, it asserted.
The federation said that the decision to count the votes on a Sunday “could be interpreted as a failure to respect the religious practice and beliefs of the Christian community.” It is imperative to accommodate the religious obligation of all the citizens, as this is fundamental to preserving the principles of democracy and secularism, it added. The NSF urged the government to revaluate this decision and explore alternative options that honour the religious diversity of all people.
