The opposition Voice People’s Party (VPP) has asked the State government not to give permission for the Gau Dhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra proposed to be held on October 2.
In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, VPP general secretary and Shillong MP Dr. Ricky A J Syngkon said, “While we fully support and uphold the principle of freedom of religion which is enshrined in our Constitution, we are deeply troubled by the potential implications that such an event could have on the communal harmony of our State.”
“We are concerned that this proposed yatra could lead to division and disrupt the peaceful coexistence of communities in Meghalaya. The social and cultural diversity of our State must be respected, and we cannot allow events that may seek to undermine or challenge this balance,” Syngkon added.
He also said that attempts to impose beliefs regarding what people should eat, how they should live, or what they should believe in, then such activities threaten the very fabric of the society.
Stating that Meghalaya is a State known for its diversity, peace and mutual respect across communities, the VPP leader also strongly urged the government not to allow the yatra to take place given the nature of the State’s social fabric.
“The safety, peace and unity of the people of Meghalaya must be the government’s top priority and any event that threatens to disrupt these values should not be permitted,” he said.
