KOHIMA: The Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) has raised concerns about the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) plan to conduct cleanliness drives in church compounds across the state on May 11, especially with five of the seven phases of the Lok Sabha elections still pending.
CAN stated that any unconventional proposal by a political party during an ongoing election period could be perceived as an election tactic.
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Moreover, any initiative involving the property of another group without consent reflects a lack of respect and disregards the right to property recognized as a human right by the Supreme Court.
Highlighting the “significant increase” in atrocities against Christians in India in recent years, with over 150 recorded incidents of violence in the first three months of 2024 alone, CAN cited instances of destruction of church properties and entire buildings in neighbouring states of Nagaland like Assam and Manipur over the past year.
Also read: Nagaland: After NBCC, NCRC also declines BJP’s offer to clean church compounds
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Asserting the Catholic Church’s authority over its religious properties, including sacred worship spaces maintained with sanctity and dignity, CAN reiterated its non-political stance.
It commended parish priests, institution heads, and lay faithful for consistently safeguarding the sanctity and dignity of sacred spaces while urging them to remain vigilant against political parties’ proposals or offers, whether provocative or enticing.
Additionally, CAN called upon BJP members in Nagaland to advocate for positive actions against minority persecution, ensure justice for victims, and safeguard church properties nationwide.
It urged all political parties and public servants to uphold the values and freedoms guaranteed by both tradition and the constitution of the nation.