Meghalaya Governor Chandrashekhar H Vjiyashankar has emphasised the vital role that faith leaders and community representatives play in fostering social cohesion and maintaining calm.
The Governor today convened a meeting with all faith leaders at the Raj Bhavan in the backdrop of tension between India and Pakistan following the Pahlagam terrorist attack.
During the meeting, strongly condemned terrorism both in India and globally and lauded the spiritual leaders for their collective support to the nation. He also appealed to every citizen, regardless of religious or cultural background, to stand united in upholding the principles of mutual respect, patriotism, and national integrity.
He assured that all necessary measures were being taken to maintain law and order in Meghalaya and reiterated that India’s strength lies in its diversity and democratic values, and that the message of peace must prevail above all.
In these challenging times, it is crucial for all communities to come together, reaffirm our shared values, and work collaboratively to ensure that the fabric of our diverse society remains intact and resilient, the Governor stressed.
The all faith leaders and officials collectively condemned the Pahalgam attack and extended unwavering support to the armed forces for their decisive response in the recent swift and precise action by the Indian Armed Forces under ‘Operation Sindoor’.
The religious leaders in a unified voice also pledged their support to the Union Government and expressed hope for peace and harmony to prevail across the region.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang emphasised the importance of national unity, stating, “It is the nation that comes first.”
Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma said that the nation belongs to all Indians and with the support of the people the government will reach its goal.
Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal said terrorism in any form does not have any place in the country.
Nabha Bhattacharya, Vice President of Meghalaya All Faiths Forum and President of Central Puja Committee, Rev. Ellizer N Sangma, Pastor of Garo Baptist Church, Rev GPL Gadew of the Presbyterian Church, Ganesh Dkhar, member of the Seng Khasi, Sayeedullah Nongrum, President of Meghalaya Muslim Forum, Dr. Shngain Pyrbot, General Secretary, Seinraij, Father Staibok Warjri on behalf of Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh, representatives of Presbyterian Church in Khasi and Jaintia Hills, Garo Baptist Church, Ramakrishna Mission, and the Archdiocese of Shillong attended the meeting.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma attended the meeting on virtual mode from Delhi.
A two minute silence was also observed to pay tribute to those killed in the terror attack.
