The Khasi Jaiñtia Christian Leaders Forum (KJCLF) has expressed its solidarity with fellow Christians in Chhattisgarh who have been victims of “unjustified and unlawful acts of violence”.
In a press release today, the KJCLF said that it “is greatly alarmed at reports of unprovoked violence perpetrated against individuals and families belonging to the minority community and members of the Christian Church, including physical beatings, being evicted and driven out of their homes and villages.”
It is also appalled by reports that the government is refusing to register criminal cases against the perpetrators.
“Violence and hatred against each other has to stop,” KJCLF secretary Rev EH Kharkongor said. “The KJCLF calls on faith and spiritual leaders to combat hatred and prejudicial biases. While affirming that religions, faiths and spiritual traditions exert powerful and positive influences on the lives of individuals and communities, the KJCLF appeals to the governments in both the states and the Centre to recognise the imperative need for dialogue among different faiths and religions which will enhance mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people. In doing so, the governing powers will greatly impact on the removal of the ‘fear factor’ in the lives of all citizens of this great nation.”