In a significant political development ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), a prominent religious institution in the Christian-majority state, has launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Central government. Accusing the Centre of actively fostering right-wing extremism, the NBCC also dismissed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion regarding the situation in Manipur as “illogical.”
The NBCC’s statement, released on Thursday, has stirred political waves, particularly in Nagaland, where the ruling coalition, People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA), includes the BJP as one of its constituents. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections have heightened tensions, with the PDA fielding a leader from the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) as its joint candidate against the Congress.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s campaign emphasis on preserving Christian faith and identity amidst the BJP’s presence as an ally reflects concerns within the ruling coalition regarding potential electoral consequences. The NBCC’s appeal to voters underscores the urgency of choosing the “right government” amid what it describes as “unprecedented times.”
Villo Naleo, convener of the NBCC’s Clean Election Movement initiative, highlighted the rising ideology of Hindu majoritarianism and religious vigilantism, which poses existential threats to minorities, including Christians and tribal communities in the northeast. The NBCC accuses the present government of endorsing and promoting right-wing extremism, citing concerns over the BJP’s alliance with the NDPP and allegations of unethical election practices.
Responding to criticisms, NBCC General Secretary Reverend Zelhou Keyho affirmed that the appeal represents the official stance of the church body, emphasizing its non-partisan nature while urging those in power to take responsibility.
The NBCC’s appeal extends beyond religious persecution, addressing broader civic concerns such as the shrinking of democratic spaces and alleged political harassment, exemplified by the recent arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Moreover, the NBCC challenges Modi’s assertion regarding the situation in Manipur, accusing the government of undermining the suffering of its people.
The BJP’s efforts to expand its influence in the northeast, including Nagaland, and its outreach to Christian communities through various engagements have been noted. However, the NBCC’s strong stance underscores the community’s apprehensions and calls for conscientious action among citizens.
Nagaland, with its overwhelmingly Christian population, holds strategic significance in the region, making the NBCC’s appeal a crucial factor in shaping electoral dynamics. The appeal also addresses the extension of the Disturbed Areas Act in Nagaland, reflecting broader concerns about India’s political trajectory.
As the Lok Sabha elections draw near, the NBCC‘s appeal resonates as a call for citizens to uphold democratic values and choose leaders committed to inclusivity and social justice. With the electorate poised to make critical decisions, the NBCC’s statement underscores the imperative of voting for integrity and accountability in governance.