Manen Aier Photo
Mokokchung, October 28 (MExN): The Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) and the Ao Senden have expressed concern over the President of India’s visit to the state coinciding with the Sesquicentennial celebration of Christianity in the Naga Hills.
In separate press releases, the two organisations stated that preparations have been going on to celebrate the Sesquicentennial anniversary from November 1 to 3; however, the Government of Nagaland has issued directives instructing its officers and staff, including those posted in the districts, to be in station, and that that granting of leave be avoided from November 2 to 3 in view of the President’s visit.
Stating that the Government’s directive ((Ref: D.O.No.CSO/MISC/2022 Dated 25th October 2022) would curtail the participation of many devout officers in the historic jubilation programme, the ABAM expressed its wish that the President’s visit be postponed to another day for the benefit of all citizens.
Similarly, the Ao Senden noted that Nagaland state with 89% of its population being Christians is the state with the highest percentage of Christians in India.
“The Hon’ble President of India could have chosen any other date to visit the state. It is unfortunate that the Hon’ble President of India’s visit coincides with the celebration of 150 Years of Christianity in Naga Hills, an event that was planned years ahead of schedule and to everybody’s knowledge,” it stated in a press release.
While acknowledging that the Government of Nagaland has issued its directive as per protocol, the Ao Senden appealed to the Government of Nagaland “not to restrict anyone from attending the Sesquicentennial event if s/he so desires.”
