The Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) has expressed strong displeasure over the proposed publication of the draft electoral rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) 2026 for the four Assembly constituencies in Phek district on September 20, which falls on a Sunday.
In a statement issued on September 19, the CBCC questioned the decision to hold the exercise on Sunday, describing the timing as insensitive to the Christian community, which observes the day as sacred.
The council alleged that the last-minute information regarding the programme raised concerns over whether adequate consideration had been given to religious observance. It questioned, “Why not give ‘freedom of religion’ a chance?”
The CBCC also expressed disappointment that the authorities had proceeded with the programme despite Sunday being widely observed as a day of worship in the district. It further criticised what it described as the silence of political parties, government officials and electoral authorities in Nagaland over the matter.
The council said the decision could compel members of the Christian community to participate in an official exercise on a day they traditionally reserve for worship and religious activities.
The CBCC stated that it would oppose what it considers interference with Christian religious observance and said it would protest against any individual, political party, organisation, administration or government that, in its view, undermines the Christian faith.
“The Church of Jesus Christ can be humiliated but the Kingdom of God will not fail,” the statement said.
The council maintained that its objection was rooted in protecting religious observance and called for greater consideration of freedom of religion in scheduling official programmes.
