Dimapur, September 10 (MExN): The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) today distanced itself from scheduled “Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra," event in Kohima on September 28 and urged to organisers to reconsider the decision.
“To set the record straight, this group/organisation has nothing to do with the BJP Nagaland State,” affirmed the BJP Nagaland in a press statement from its President Benjamin Yepthomi.
The programme, which seeks to promote a ‘nationwide ban on cow slaughter,’ has raised concerns across the various Naga tribal communities in Nagaland, it said.
While respecting the sentiments and faith of our fellow citizens, it is imperative to address this issue in the context of Nagaland’s unique socio-religious and cultural fabric, it contended.
The party also highlighted Nagaland enjoys special protection concerning its religious and social practices, amongst others, as enshrined in Article 371A of the Indian Constitution.
These provisions were instituted to preserve the distinctive traditions of the Naga people, including their long-standing customs and beliefs, it said.
Any attempt to impose regulations that contradict these practices, especially in matters of food, is a direct infringement on the rights guaranteed to the people of Nagaland, it added.
The BJP Nagaland also noted that the State’s population is predominantly Christian, and faith plays a significant role in shaping their way of life.
“The proposed cow slaughter ban not only challenges our cultural and social practices but also goes against our religious beliefs,” it asserted, adding that beef is a favoured and integral part of Naga’s cuisine, cultural practices and traditional festivals since time immemorial.
To impose restrictions on its consumption would deeply affect the cultural identity and daily lives of the people besides grievously hurting their sentiments and risk, it said.
“Such impositions risk creating divisions, where none exist, and may undermine the social harmony that we have worked so hard to build and maintain throughout the last many decades with people of different communities and faiths,” it added.
The BJP Nagaland also reminded that India is a secular country, upholding the principle of freedom of religion and the right to practice and follow one's customs without interference and expectation of the same level of respect and understanding for each other’s traditions and way of life.
“The diversity of our nation is one of its greatest strengths, and this diversity should be celebrated, not curtailed,” it added.
While the intent behind the movement may be seen as noble by some, it is crucial to recognise that Nagaland’s social and communal harmony could be disrupted by initiatives that are not aligned with the values and practices of the people, it added.
Accordingly, the BJP Naglaand urged the organisers of the Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra to reconsider holding such a programme in the State, given the potential implications on cultural cohesion and communal peace.
It further emphasised that its opposition to proposed program is not an attack on any particular faith or belief system, but rather, it is a call for mutual respect and understanding.
The BJP Nagaland State also requested the Government of Nagaland to uphold the provisions of Article 371A and protect the rights and traditions of the Naga people and appealed to all concerned parties to ensure that longstanding peace, harmony and unity are maintained within the society.
In a separate statement, the BJP Mokokchung District fully endorsed for the statement issued by its State President Yepthomi on the issue.
The unit remains committed to the values of harmony, coexistence, and respect for all communities and our focus will always be on promoting understanding and maintaining the rich cultural heritage of our land, it added.
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