Shillong, Sep 22: The National People’s Party (NPP) today condemned the harassment and unlawful detention of a Catholic nun, two staff members from Catholic Charities Jamshedpur, and 19 minors at Tatanagar railway station on September 21.
In a statement today NPP Working President James K Sangma said the incident represents a disturbing attack on religious freedom based solely on unsubstantiated allegations, claiming trafficking and forced conversion.
“The reality, as clarified by Father Birendra Tete, was that these minors were invited to participate in a legitimate two-day training program on adolescent health and skill development. The prolonged detention until 3 am, despite no evidence of wrongdoing, demonstrates intimidation against religious minorities,” Sangma said.
He said the NPP is committed to protecting minority rights and condemns such religious persecution.
Calling authorities to uphold constitutional provisions guaranteeing religious freedom and ensuring no community faces harassment for lawful charitable work, Sangma said the party stands in solidarity with all religious minorities and will continue to strongly condemn any attempt to undermine our nation’s secular fabric.
“Such acts are not only unconstitutional but also damage our democratic nature,” he added.
