Catholic institutions to remain closed today

Diocese of Kohima has informed that all Catholic-run schools and institutions in the state would remain closed July 23 to protest against the demolition of Anatongre Catholic Church in Kiphire July 9.
Diocese of Kohima spokesperson Fr. R. R. Graviour Augustine and education commission secretary Rev. Fr. Mathew Thuniampral, in separate releases, stated that the closure has been called as a mark of solidarity and sympathy for those who were prevented from following the “worship of their choice”. The closure would also reflect as a symbolic observance against “deliberate obstructions and ostracizing individuals” for embracing Catholic faith meted out in various parts of the state, the releases added.
Expressing regret for the inconvenience, the Diocese has appealed to school children, their parents and public to bear with the inconvenience.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Church of Nagaland has expressed gratitude to state governor Nikhil Kumar, chief minister Neiphiu Rio and various government officials for showing their concern and support, and initiating steps to solve the Anatongre issue.
Stating that the incident was not isolated and confined only to Anatongre village where a group of people prevented another group from following worship of their choice by way of imposing fine, excommunication, confiscation of properties etc, the Catholic Church lamented that such acts were prevalent in many parts of the state.
Fr. R. R. Graviour Augustine also said it was a positive development that the incident has brought to the notice of the administration and the general public of how a particular section of people of the state was being treated.
The Catholic Church also thanked media houses of the Nagaland for raising the issue positively by giving adequate coverage in respective dailies. Diocese of Kohima vicar general, Rev. Fr. Neisalhou Carolous, while appreciating the initiative of the media, stated that the coverage has created awareness among the general public as well as the responsible authorities to take prompt action on the matter.
NBCC on July 9 incident
Reacting to July 9 incident that involved demolition of Catholic Church at Anatongre village, Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) Thursday said the conflict was not between Baptists and Catholics, but between the latter and Anatongre village council.
A press statement issued by NBCC general secretary in-charge, Rev. Iringtie Kauring said it was unfortunate that the crisis has been “blown out of proportion” by people without studying the “ground reality” and listening to both parties in conflict. Stating that Anatongre village council had substantial authority in solving problems arising within its jurisdiction for the welfare of the people, the NBCC has appealed to all responsible persons to address the issue in the right perspective, for the sake of peace and harmony in the state.