Impur, February 22 (MExN): The Ao Baptist Church Association (ABAM) has stated that it is not against any political party or candidate.
In a statement received here today, Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger, Executive Secretary of the Ao Baptist Church Association clarified that ABAM as a religious body is not against any political party or candidate. “However, it will stand with an unflinching spirit to safeguard any attempt to restrict or impose practises contrary to Christian beliefs,” it stated. ABAM was reacting to the recent statements made by the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju where the latter had stated that the BJP will safeguard Christians.
“The incidence of attacks on Christians in various parts of India which has been on the rise ever since BJP came to power in the center, is an indication of what is to come should BJP gain power in Nagaland. It is no secret that it is the political wing of the RSS (Rashtriya Swaamsevak Sangh). RSS openly upholds and values a conservative agenda of Hindutva ideology and does its best to stop Christians from preaching about their faith,” the statement read.
It argued that the rechristening of Christmas Day to “Good Governance Day” (December 25) and Good Friday to “Digital India Day” (2017) are “indications of ulterior motives to dilute important Christian days” undertaken by BJP. “This is what ABAM has been vocal about.”
“The question is can a BJP-RSS led government act contrary to its ideology and principles?” ABAM questioned while contending that “Ghar Wapsi” has only emboldened the RSS and its proponents and giving rise to suspicion by religious minorities.
“The statement, “Mixing religion with politics is a sin” (The Morung Express, 22 February 2018) does contradict the position of the party you represent," ABAM maintained.
"BJP is the political voice of RSS and hence the connection. Or is the BJP you represent a Christianised BJP?” ABAM further posed.
