Constitution safeguards freedom of religion: Rio reassures Nagas

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio reassured Nagas, amidst Congress claims of religious freedom being at risk under the Narendra Modi-led government, that the Constitution of India safeguards freedom of religion.

Addressing the election rally of PDA consensus candidate Dr Chumben Murry at St Xavier College, Jalukie Town, on Wednesday, Rio pointed out that freedom of religion was enshrined in Article 25 of the constitution.

Without naming any party, he questioned why the issue of religious atrocities was only brought up during election, reiterating that the Constitution of India was there to save religion.
He said Nagas should not isolate themselves as Christians, as the world had now become a global village
Citing examples of Prime Minister Modi’s participation in Muslim and Christian festivals and his visit to Vatican City, he highlighted the inclusive nature of the Modi government.

Rio reminded the gathering of Christianity’s global prominence, urging the Christians that even though they were in a minority in the country, they should not be scared. He said India and Nepal were Hindu-majority countries, while the US, UK, Australia, etc, were Christian countries.
He announced the visit of national BJP president JP Nadda to Nagaland, assuring that he would personally take up the issue protection of religious minorities with Nadda.

He reiterated the commitment of regional parties NDPP and NPF to safeguard Naga culture.
Expressing confidence that the BJP alone would secure over 300 seats as per exit polls, he said he was happy that despite this the party was forging alliance with other parties. He stated that 57 parties were now in alliance with the BJP across the country.

In contrast, he pointed out that the INDIA bloc was still not sure about seat sharing, adding that many parties were leaving the bloc.
Dwelling on economic progress of the country under the Modi government, he urged Nagas to actively participate in India’s growth story and contribute to the nation’s development.

Lashing out at the Congress, he recalled that Presidents Rule was imposed in the state during Congress reign. He reminded the gathering that Dr Manmohan Singh never visited the state even once during his 10 years as the Prime Minster.

He alleged that the Congress did nothing on the Naga issue, reminding the gathering that the Framework Agreement and Agreed Position were singed due to Modi.
He declared that after the Lok Sabha election, all 60 MLAs would hold discussion and press for solution to the Naga political issue.

Rio expressed confidence in the PDA consensus candidate’s victory, besides hoping for a peaceful election in Nagaland and predicting the return of the NDA government with Modi as Prime Minister.
In his speech, Murry reiterated his commitment to the entire state’s welfare, while criticising Congress candidate S Supongmeren Jamirfor raking up religion.

He maintained that though Hindu religion constituted 82% of India’s population, not all Hindus were extremists, adding that only 1% to 2% followed extremism.
He also claimed that persecution of Christians took place even before the BJP came to power, acknowledging that it was still happening.

He highlighted the necessity of addressing grassroots issues to curb religious persecution and pledged to be a part of the Parliamentary Christian forum if elected.
If elected, he assured to personally visit the places where minorities were persecuted and meet the state governments there.

Murry stressed peace, and acknowledged the efforts of the 60 MLAs in coming together and forming an opposition-less government for achieving peace in Nagaland.
He said he considered Rio as the most innovative chief minister, claiming that the state was slowly marching towards excellence and prosperity.

He spoke on how Modi changed the Look East Policy to Act East Policy, which had led to massive development in all the north-eastern states, including Nagaland.
He urged youth to leverage technological advancements and take informed decisions, emphasising their active participation in shaping the region’s future. He also reiterated his announcement of rewarding the district with highest number of votes.

Speaking on the occasion, NDPP president and PDA chairman Chingwang Konyak emphasised electing a representative who could effectively raise voice for the entire Naga community in Parliament.
Referring to Murry’s professional background as a doctor and his extensive experience in Assembly, Konyak underscored stability and strong leadership in Nagaland.

Claiming that the state had thrived under the leadership of Rio, he dismissed religious propaganda and called for a clear distinction between religion and politics. He quoted Ecclesiastes 3, “There is a time for everything”.

Reflecting on the political landscape, he acknowledged the historical role of Congress but remarked that the party was now dying.
Referring to the incident in which he was summoned by ENPO, without providing much details, he said that the ENPO had conveyed to him that he had said the right things, but at the wrong forum.
He urged voters to vote wisely and elect individuals who would effectively govern, expressing the hope for the return of BJP to power and the success of PDA candidate in the state.

In his welcome address, deputy chief minister TR Zeliang underscored the distinct identities of parties and their commitment to their respective constitutions and manifestos. He said the NDPP was not BJP and vice versa.

He also expressed concern over the Congress allegedly involving the church in its election campaign, while reiterating that the alliance between the NDPP and BJP aimed at resolving the Indo-Naga political issue.

Zeliang highlighted the infrastructural development in Nagaland, noting the increase in roads, bridges, infrastructure developments, etc, since the Modi-led government came to power.
Criticising the lack of progress during Congress rule, he accused the party at the Centre and neighbouring states for diverting national highways and railways meant for Nagaland.

Opposing the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the Assam Healing Bill, he stressed unity of political parties in Nagaland on these issues.
Taking a dig at the lack of Congress members in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, he questioned the ability of the party’s candidate to represent Naga people in Parliament by sitting in the opposition bench. He reiterated Murry’s ability to represent the voice of the Naga people effectively.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by NDPP advisor Neiba Ndang, and invocation offered by JTLBC pastor Rev Dr Mongzeung Mpom. Short speeches were delivered by former independent candidate Dr Tumda Newme, former NDPP candidate Tarie Zeliang, and legislators Picto Shohe, Achumbemo Kikon, Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, Dr Sukhato A Sema, Dr Neisatuo Mero, and Kropol Vitsu. Vote of thanks was offered by MLA Namri Nchang, and benediction by ES RBCAN, Rev Mathiuthai.