The education minister Rakkam A Sangma has received backlash for his plan to consecrate the newly established Captain Williamson Sangma State University on January 13 with Christian prayer service.
After the Thma- U-Rangli-Juki criticised the move, the Seinraj Jowai, socio-religious congregation of the Jaintias, said it felt deceived by the government.
Stating that while the congregation is overjoyed and adore the State government for establishing the State’s first university, the minister’s statement has shattered the very fabric of a Constitution in a country with immense diversity as well as in Meghalaya though a small state.
“The statement from the responsible Minister of the Government Meghalaya is an attempt of creating Communal Divide of the peaceful state and infringes the provision of Right to Freedom of Religion enshrined under Articles 25 & 26 of Indian Constitution,” Seinraij president Hercules Toi said.
He said that one must understand the fact and the history of the land before proclaiming Meghalaya as a “Christian State”.
Referring to the unique festivals of Meghalaya observed by the indigenous faith like Behdienkhlam, Sukra, Shad Suk Mynsiem and others, the Seinraij president said, “The term “Christian State” demeans our very existence as faithful of the indigenous faith – Ki Khon Ka Niamtre Niam Khasi.”
Toi said that no other religion existed in Meghalaya during the pre-British period except the indigenous faith, which till date stands tall to protect, to preserve and to embrace tradition, culture and belief as handed over by the ancestors amidst challenges and the forces in mission to eradicate of what belong to the land.
The Seinraij said running of any official program of the government or even decorating office buildings and celebrating festivals of one particular religion within its premises is an arrogation and a breach of Right to Religious Freedom.
It also referred to the 42nd Amendment of the Constitution of India 1976, which declares India secular. “The Supreme Court’s ruling in the 1994 case – S. R. Bommai v. Union of India clearly states that “Established that India had been secular since the formation of the Republic on 26th January, 1950”. This means that the Government should not promote any particular Religion or Religious practices,” the congregation added.
The Seinraij also sought the intervention of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to uphold religious harmony and mutual respect amongst the people of the state and the country.
