Faith sans freedom

Christian institutions and organizations in India are being increasingly targeted by extremist organisations espousing intolerance to other non-Hindu faiths where churches and religious sites are being intruded and worshippers attacked under the dubious accusations of ‘conversion’ while in some instances, pastors and priests have been beaten even including the wives, religious items including the Holy Bible burnt besides various other atrocities. Despite recent engagements between the Prime Minister and Church leaders, where appreciation for their contributions was acknowledged and assurances of unhindered continuation of their endeavours were given; the truth is that unabated assaults stand as a testimony to the rhetorical assurances.

In Manipur, under the specious plea of tackling Kuki-Chin immigrants, bands of Meitei extremists and under the patronage of the BJP government, have indiscriminately carried out a pogrom first against Kukis then on Christians. For Christians in Nagaland and the north east, the continuing plight of Christian community in Manipur where over 300 churches have been burned down or destroyed, Christian religious institutions vandalised and desecrated in the most vile manner and community members physically assaulted and humiliated calls for loudly voicing out concern. Even Assam, which was the launching pad for European Christian pioneers to the Nagas, Mizos and Khasis; had been a hub for missionaries bound for the hill states.

However after centuries, today under the BJP, Assam is witnessing blatant communalism and intolerance where some elements belonging to extreme outfits are blatantly issuing open threats and ultimatum on Christian churches and educational institutions. All these are also happening under the watch of the BJP government. It is under these contexts, the Clean Election Movement (CEM) under the auspices of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) had issued a communiqué to highlight these issues and appealing to voters in Nagaland to exercise their franchise with due diligence . The CEM’s statement expresses deep concern over the disturbing socio-political environment in the country and the threats posed on the immediate fate of the constitutional guarantees of freedom of choice and equality before the law. What compounds this disappointment is the glaring lack of accountability as no tangible action has been taken against the perpetrators, perpetuating a culture of impunity. The imposition of bureaucratic hurdles, such as requiring permission from district authorities for individuals from the Hindu community seeking to embrace another faith, only serves to exacerbate the erosion of religious freedoms guaranteed by the constitution.

The CEM’s insightful analysis of the prevailing atmosphere in India, particularly highlighting the alarming rise of bigotry and its adverse effects on religious minorities, echoes the concerns shared by many. By shedding light on the fear psychosis gripping Christians and Muslims and other religious minorities, the body underscores the urgent need for fostering harmony and preserving the rich tapestry of diversity in our nation. While the Clean Election Movement values the constructive dialogue initiated by the NBCC, it also underscores the importance of translating words into tangible actions. The CEM’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for concerted efforts in combating religious intolerance and promoting inclusivity. It’s imperative for all stakeholders, including civil society organizations and policymakers, to collaborate effectively in upholding the principles of secularism and safeguarding the rights of religious minorities. Only through collective action can a just and pluralistic society strive towards a more equitable and harmonious society, where diversity is celebrated and bigotry finds no place.