The Sein Raij Niamtre Shillong has strongly condemned recent remarks that were allegedly made by two individuals which the organisation has found to be insulting towards the traditional faith of the Pnar people.
According to a press release today by the Sein Raij Niamtre Shillong, Reading War and Kyrsoibor Pyrtuh were involved in a discussion on environmental issues when they reportedly “questioned the relevance of Ka Niam Behdeiñkhlam and Chad Sukra in the present-day context”, Sein Raij Niamtre Shillong general secretary Shngainki Pyrbot said in the release. “It is deeply distressing that such sacred and time-honoured religious festivals were not only dismissed but also mocked, with the term ‘Chad Cement’ being used in a derogatory manner.”
Such statements are not just an affront to the faith but also to the rich cultural heritage of the Jaintia community, Pyrbot added. “Behdeiñkhlam and Chad Sukra hold deep spiritual significance and are an integral part of our traditions. Any attempt to belittle these traditions is an insult to the identity and beliefs of thousands of adherents of Niamtre.”
The release went on to say that Sein Raij Niamtre Shillong respects all religions and faiths and expects the same in return. “We urge responsible discourse, free from prejudice and derogatory comments, especially in public platforms. Such remarks can create division and hurt the sentiments of communities that have coexisted peacefully for centuries.
We call upon all right-thinking individuals and organisations to stand against such attempts to undermine indigenous faiths.”
Pyrbot also called for the two individuals to tender an apology for their remarks.
