NBCC asks govt to develop ‘responsive mechanism’

Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) today put across the need for the government to take all stakeholders into confidence and develop a ‘responsive mechanism’ to combat the pandemic collectively.


In a press release issued on May 29, NBCC General Secretary Rev Dr Zelhou Keyho expressed concern over the challenges arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic and stated that cooperation at all levels is paramount to promptly respond to the pandemic.


Stating that the need of the hour is transparency and coordination, the NBCC stated that “The Government must continually take all stakeholders into confidence and develop a responsive mechanism to combat the pandemic collectively.” Another challenge in the administrative system is to move funds, procure goods and make payments on timely manner, it added.


On the preparation to fight against the pandemic, it said that while the state had ‘at least over two months,’ “Given the extent of basic equipments and infrastructure required we have fallen short of the mark and we hear disgruntled cries from various corners of the state.”


 “What happened to our children from Tuensang hurt us deeply.  Negligence and selfishness should not become the norm at this time. The feeling of abandonment can cause us to lose our grips and the temptations and doubts can multiply,” the NBCC stated, while adding that “At this time, the government should wisely act so as not to create further chasm among the Naga family.”


The NBCC meanwhile stated that “It is important, at this juncture, to not let fear and insecurity make selfish and hasty decision to protect oneself and one’s own community,” and said that the collective should “shy away from the command and control mode and give way to developing a harmonious and efficient inter-district coordination mechanism.”


“At this crucial time we cannot afford to let any of our action or decision being misconstrued as one of favouritism as it can breed a culture of mistrust,” it said, while adding that the consequences can be costly creating a spirit of animosity in the society.


Citing the Paul the Apostle’s letter to the Corinthians which says, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it...,” the NBCC stated that “Our motive therefore must be sincere, serving one another with all that we have and do all we can.”


“Overcoming the extraordinary challenges ahead is going to need both the government and the people to have mutual trust and a greater commitment to genuinely work together.  Let us continue to pray, trust and hope in God even during this difficult and trying times,” the NBCC appealed.