‘Violence never solves any issue’: NJCF

May 8, 2023 34 Views No Comment

Nagaland Joint Christian Forum calls for peaceful dialogue and non-violent resolution of differences

Kohima, May 8 (MExN): The Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) on Sunday stated that violence is never a means to solve any issue and called upon all citizens and groups in society to work together towards reconciliation and peace building.

In a statement regarding the prevailing situation in Manipur, the Forum urged all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue and find a non-violent resolution to their differences.

It also called on all parties to respect the sanctity of sacred places and properties.

The NJCF, which comprises of all denominations in Nagaland and Christian community, meanwhile expressed deep concern over the ongoing unrest and recent escalation of violence in Manipur.

The report of attacks and the visual images of burning churches, destroying properties, and taking of lives are deeply troubling, noted the NJCF in the statement issued by its president Rev Dr Zelhou Keyho.

“NJCF believes that violence in any form is never a solution; it only distances one group from the other,” it added.

Accordingly, it condemned all forms of violence and appealed to the communities to remain calm and create a sense of confidence among the people who have suffered destruction of property and loss of lives and are not living in fear and insecurity.

The NJCF further stressed that the system and people in authority must take stock of the situation and diffuse the tension among different communities and give hope to those who are suffering and are bearing the brunt of violence.

At this juncture, confidence must be built to give hope that the system still exists, it said, urging the authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety and security of all individuals and communities affected by this violence.

Manipur is a developing state in the region and such an unfortunate turn of event should not smear the outlook, it added.

The NJCF acknowledged the long-standing co-existence of different communities in Manipur and prayed that the long-term grievances are suitably addressed in consultation with the people rationally.

“We assure the people of Manipur of our prayers and support towards building a peaceful and inclusive society where every individual can live without fear or discrimination,” it added.

The Forum also assured its prayers to people in authority and church leaders as they work to bring healing to the hurting and suffering communities.

The NJCF called upon all citizens and groups of society to engage in reflective, constructive dialogue to find a peaceful resolution and work together towards reconciliation and peace building.