Kohima, February 1 (MExN): Against the backdrop of the crisis over the ULB polls, the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) today asked both the Government and the civil societies to recognize the legitimacy of different opinions and respect citizens, who, even as a group, “defend their points of view by honest methods.”
“We must act in solidarity in spite of our differences recognizing the legitimate variety of possible options to the present crisis that is posing a great threat to social breakdown in Nagaland. Catholic Laities ask for an effort at mutual understanding of the other’s position and motives, a loyal examination of one’s behavior amongst the ruling Government of the day and the civil societies to arrive at a profound peaceful solution,” stated a press release from President, CAN.
It called upon the present Government to understand and govern prudently to foster common good of the human society keeping in mind that “all power comes from God, not immediately but through the consent of human wills.”
CAN maintained that every member of the society is divinely duty-bound to “promote the dignity and rights of the human person and the common good of society.”
All the members of the Naga society including the leaders, it added, must strive together to positively impact on society. “We are called to behave ethically and with sensitivity towards social, cultural, economic and environmental issues. Every member of our society must act with sensitivity guided by ethical and above all Christian principles in a way that is beneficial to society and will strengthen the common good.”
Stating that “rulers must govern with the consent of the governed,” the Association further asserted that any responsible government must listen and be governed by the conscience of the people. “At this juncture, the State government is duty-bound to act ethically and with utmost sensitivity to the wishes of the people. It must prove that the leadership is accountable, dependable and does what is right for the common good.”
Meanwhile, CAN expressed pain at the loss of two lives in the crisis and appealed for better sense to prevail for love of life and the good of every person. It also wished speedy recovery of the injured and prayed that physical and spiritual healing will dawn upon all.
CAN requested “God’s people”, particularly the priests, clergies and nuns working in the Diocese of Kohima to offer prayers during the Holy Eucharistic celebration for peace in the State of Nagaland and wisdom of God to dawn upon the temporal leaders of Nagaland.
