Nagaland church body and NPP condemn Christmas-time attacks on Christians, urging swift action to protect constitutional rights nationwide.
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DIMAPUR — As the nation celebrated Christmas, disturbing reports emerged from various parts of India, including the Northeast, of Christians facing intimidation, disruption of church services, and vandalism of festive decorations. The incidents have triggered strong reactions from religious and political bodies in Nagaland, calling for swift administrative action and stronger protections.
The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) issued a statement expressing alarm over the increasing persecution of Christians in India. “The persecution of Christians in India isn’t a one-off incident; it is a growing concern,” read the statement.
The NBCC underscored that India, as the world’s largest democracy, bears global responsibility and must uphold constitutional guarantees for equality, freedom of expression, and religious liberty.
“The most horrifying thing is the silence of the powers that be, allowing religious hate speeches and mass campaigns within their political jurisdiction,” it stated, warning that failure to act threatens the very fabric of Indian democracy.
The council also highlighted the irony that many lawmakers and bureaucrats have benefited from Christian educational institutions, yet Christians remain marginalised and subjected to discrimination.
The NBCC called upon the nation to embrace democracy not just as a system of governance but as a way of life—ensuring coexistence, harmony, and the protection of personal freedoms for all citizens.
“The Nagaland Baptist Church Council vehemently condemns any form of persecution in India, and we stand in solidarity with the oppressed and victims of religious persecution,” it asserted.
Echoing these concerns, the Nagaland unit of National People’s Party (NPP) issued a press release urging decisive action from the Union and state authorities.
While welcoming the prime minister’s participation in Christmas church programmes as a symbolic affirmation of India’s pluralistic ethos, the party expressed concern that fringe elements continued to intimidate and disrupt religious celebrations.
“Such nefarious activities not only disturb communal harmony but also project an image contrary to India’s constitutional values and democratic credentials,” the NPP stated. The party maintained that India’s identity as a secular democracy requires safeguarding the rights of all communities, particularly during religious observances.
The NPP also raised questions about administrative lapses or delayed responses that may allow isolated incidents to escalate into wider fear and insecurity. It stressed that public confidence hinges on visible, timely, and impartial action rather than mere assurances.
“No individual or group has the authority to interfere with lawful religious or cultural practices. The responsibility to ensure safety, dignity, and equal protection rests squarely with the State,” the NPP stated.
Highlighting the prime minister’s vision of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwa’, the party called for concrete actions that reflect India’s commitment to constitutional values, pluralism, inclusivity, and rule of law.
It urged authorities to prevent further escalation, ensure accountability, and reaffirm the country’s dedication to safeguarding minority rights.
“No individual or group has the authority to interfere with lawful religious or cultural practices. The responsibility to ensure safety, dignity, and equal protection rests squarely with the state and must be exercised without bias,” it asserted.