KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 29 (MExN): The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) on Saturday expressed grave disappointment over the Government of India’s decision to deny a visa to Rev Franklin Graham, who was scheduled to minister at a major event in November 30 in Kohima.
In a statement, the organisation said the refusal has ‘deeply hurt the sentiments’ of the Naga people, who had been prayerfully preparing for months for the visit.
The CPO said Nagaland, known for its strong Christian faith and spiritual heritage, had viewed the visit as a moment of renewal and revival. “The abrupt denial of visa reflects a pattern of step-motherly treatment that our people have endured for generations,” it said.
The organisation recalled the 1929 Memorandum of the Naga Club to the Simon Commission, quoting its line: “Leave us alone to determine for ourselves as in ancient times.”
“These words echoed the conviction of a people who have always known who they are, where they came from, and the values that shape their destiny. Nearly a century later, our sentiment remains unchanged,” the CPO said.
It maintained that meaningful coexistence with the Centre must be grounded in respect. “Actions that undermine our faith, identity and sentiments only deepen alienation and reinforce the belief that our distinct identity and rights continue to be overlooked,” it added.
Reiterating its long-standing position on the right of Nagas to self-determine their future, the CPO said that as a people with a unique history and inherent political rights, any action undermining their dignity “strikes at the core of our identity and aspirations.”
While accepting the development with ‘prayerful hearts,’ the CPO said it refuses to remain silent when the dignity of the Nagas is undermined. “This act is not merely a procedural denial but a direct affront to the Christian community of Nagaland and to the dignity of an entire people,” it said.
The statement added that the decision has widened the ‘fragile trust deficit’ and reopened historical wounds that have not been addressed.
The organisation urged the Government of India to act with ‘airness, transparency and sensitivity’ and refrain from decisions that hurt the sentiments of a people with a longstanding and distinct historical identity.
