Nagaland unites in opposition to cow protection movement

Various organizations in Nagaland, including churches, civil society organizations (CSOs), and political parties, have united in strong opposition to the upcoming ‘Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra,’ organized by the Gau Pratishtha Andolan. The yatra, scheduled to take place in Kohima on September 28,  aims to promote a nationwide ban on cow slaughter and designate the cow as ‘Rashtra Mata’ (Mother of the Nation).

ABAM
The Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) has expressed deep concern regarding the upcoming Gau Pratishtha Andolan, set to take place in Kohima, Nagaland, on September 28, describing it as “yet another attempt by desperate Hindu religious fanatics to indoctrinate veneration of the cow as part of Hindu Sanatana Dharma.”

The church organization argued that the term Sanatana Dharma has been manipulated by groups like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to falsely present Hinduism as a unified world religion. According to ABAM, Sanatana Dharma is being used as a “sectarian creed or a nationalist credo” built on “occidental ideologies,” an attempt to portray Hinduism as transcendent of history.

ABAM condemned the Andolan’s goal to curb the consumption of cow meat, viewing it as a step towards enforcing “total vegetarianism, Brahminization, or Hinduisation of the entire nation.” The organization expressed alarm at the “strong, aggressive, and offensive” religious undertones of this movement, asserting that such an exclusive interpretation of spirituality “fails to grasp the commonality of life beyond all human-made differences.”

ABAM further emphasized that attempts to enforce vegetarianism or cow worship go against the core values of other faiths. “All the counterfeit disciplines of the world have been founded out of a desire for holiness,” ABAM stated, drawing parallels to the biblical story of the golden calf. ABAM recalled that when the Israelites worshipped the golden calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai, it was deemed “a great sin against God.”

Citing 1 Peter 1:15-16 from the New Testament, ABAM reiterated its stance that true holiness comes from being “blameless and set apart” as called by God, and not through worshipping animals. “There is only one way to become holy and obtain right standing before God, and no one is holy unless they are born again,” the statement added.

ABAM also addressed the theological argument presented by the Gau Pratishtha Andolan, which claimed that abstaining from cow meat leads to holiness. ABAM countered this by quoting 1 Timothy 4:4: “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.” It added that animals are created for people, not the other way around, and reminded Christians that “the Creator God alone is to be worshipped” (John 4:24).

ABAM urged the Christians not to be deceived by any of the world’s self-claimed holiness like Shankaracharya or any other individual who rejects Jesus’ Blood as a covering for their own lack of Holiness (1 John 2:2).

“Jesus said, I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6). Only God can impart Holiness to a human being as a gift (Romans 5:17) through Jesus and not through any other substitute,” the ABAM added.

Chakhesang Baptist Church Council
The Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) has issued a stern call to its members, urging them to remain vigilant and unified in opposition to the upcoming “Gau Dwaj Yatra.”

In a letter addressed to all CBCC pastors, pastoral staff, board of deacons, heads of departments, and church members, the council described the movement as “disturbing” and a direct challenge to their faith. “We live in a very challenging world today in every aspect; our faith is not spared either!” the letter read, emphasizing the spiritual and social implications of the forthcoming event.

While acknowledging that India is a secular country where every religion has the right to propagate its beliefs, CBCC strongly condemned the imposition of one faith over others. “Blanket imposition of one’s belief on others in the form of a religious movement is extremely wrong and unacceptable,” the council stated. It also highlighted that while Christians share the gospel of Jesus Christ with people of other faiths, they do so without coercion, citing Mark 10:17-23 as a scriptural basis against forceful conversion.

CBCC called upon its members to “stiffly oppose” the Gau Dwaj Yatra and its agenda, viewing it as an attempt at “religious subjugation and cultural invasion by Hindu fanatics.” The council warned that allowing such movements would not only “suppress our Christian faith but also deeply disturb the social fabric of the people in Nagaland.”

The council instructed its members to ensure that no one under CBCC is involved in organizing, supporting, or participating in the said program. “Should any member of our church be found involving in this anti-Christian movement, they will be liable to face disciplinary action,” the statement read. CBCC urged everyone to take responsibility for preserving the purity of their faith, reminding believers to stand firm in the face of challenges.

“Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21), the council concluded, calling on its members to unite in defense of their Christian values.

Angami Peoples’ Organization writes to CM
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, the Angami Public Organisation (APO) also expressed its opposition to the event and its potential impact on the cultural and social fabric of the Naga community.

The APO highlighted that in Naga culture, the slaughter of cows is an integral part of traditional festivals and that beef is considered a delicacy. “Any campaign to ban the slaughter of cows in the Naga inhabited area is bound to face fierce resentment,” the letter read. While acknowledging the right of others to their own dietary choices, the organization made it clear that they are against any external authority imposing eating habits on the Naga people.

Further, APO stated that mother in the Naga society has its own rightful place with very high esteem and sanctity and therefore, in the Naga culture it is taboo to address any animal as mother or father.

“We are totally against anyone dictating us on how to address our cows and dogs,” it said.

In their appeal to the Chief Minister, the APO pointed out that Hindus and Nagas have coexisted peacefully in Nagaland for many years, warning that “any incitement as the proposed ‘Yatra’ has envisaged will only disturb the hitherto cordial relation amongst the communities.” The APO emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and social harmony in the state and urged the government to prevent the Yatra from entering Nagaland.

Nagaland Congress condemns

The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has reiterated its belief that the strength and essence of Indian democracy lie in its diversity and mutual respect among citizens. However, the committee has expressed concern over what it describes as a disturbing rise in assaults against these foundational principles.

In a recent statement, the NPCC criticized the proposed “Gau Dhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra,” scheduled to take place in Kohima on September 28, 2024. The yatra aims to promote a nationwide ban on cow slaughter, which the NPCC denounces as emblematic of a broader divisive trend. “The proposed Gau Dhwaj in Kohima is ‘Exhibit A’ of this divisive trend,” the statement reads.

The NPCC firmly opposes any attempts to impose food preferences or beliefs on others, asserting that food choice is a personal matter and a fundamental aspect of individual freedom. “Any attempts to impose one’s food preferences or beliefs on another in the State would be opposed tooth and nail,” the committee stated.

The NPCC reaffirmed its commitment to respecting and safeguarding the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and identities of all communities across India. The Communications Department of the NPCC emphasized that the party remains steadfast in its dedication to preserving the nation’s cultural and democratic values.

BJP Nagaland distances itself from ‘Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra’

The BJP Nagaland State has clarified its position regarding the upcoming “Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra,” scheduled to take place in Kohima, Nagaland, on September 28, 2024. In a statement from the state president, Benjamin Yepthomi, the party emphasized that the group or organization behind the event has nothing to do with the BJP Nagaland State, which seeks to promote a nationwide ban on cow slaughter.

The BJP Nagaland State acknowledged the growing concerns among various Naga tribal communities, stating, “While we respect the sentiments and faith of our fellow citizens, it is imperative to address this issue in the context of Nagaland’s unique socio-religious and cultural fabric.”

The party highlighted the significance of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, which grants special protections to Nagaland’s religious and social practices. The statement said that any attempt to impose regulations that contradict these customs, particularly concerning food, would be a “direct infringement on the rights guaranteed to the people of Nagaland.”

Nagaland’s population is predominantly Christian, and the BJP Nagaland pointed out that beef consumption is an integral part of Naga cultural and religious practices. “For many in Nagaland, beef is a favored and integral part of our cuisine and has been part of our cultural practices and traditional festivals since time immemorial. To impose restrictions on its consumption would deeply affect the cultural identity and daily lives of our people besides grievously hurting our sentiments,” the party stated.

The BJP Nagaland further warned that such impositions could undermine the social harmony that they have worked so hard to build and maintain throughout the last many decades with people of different communities and faiths.

The party reminded that India is a secular country that upholds the principle of freedom of religion and the right to practice and follow one’s customs without interference.

“Just as we respect the beliefs of others, we too expect the same level of respect and understanding for our own traditions and way of life. The diversity of our nation is one of its greatest strengths, and this diversity should be celebrated, not curtailed,” it stated.

While acknowledging that the movement’s intent may be seen as noble by some, the BJP Nagaland urged the organizers of the Yatra to reconsider holding the event in Nagaland, citing the potential for disruption to the state’s cultural cohesion and communal peace.

The BJP Nagaland reiterated that their opposition to the program is not an attack on any particular faith or belief system. Instead, it is a call for mutual respect and understanding, ensuring that “the rich mosaic of India’s diversity continues to thrive without compromising the Constitutional rights and cultural values of any community.”

The BJP Nagaland also appealed to the Government of Nagaland to uphold the provisions of Article 371A and protect the rights and traditions of the Naga people. They urged all parties involved to ensure that peace, harmony, and unity are maintained within the state.

BJP Mokokchung district backs state president’s stand

The BJP Mokokchung District has expressed its full support for the statement made by BJP Nagaland State President, Benjamin Yepthomi, concerning the upcoming “Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra,” scheduled to take place in Kohima on September 28. The district unit clarified its endorsement of the President’s position, affirming that the initiative, which promotes a nationwide ban on cow slaughter, is not connected to the BJP Nagaland State.

In a statement, the BJP Mokokchung District highlighted the importance of preserving the socio-religious and cultural fabric of Nagaland, as protected under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. “It is vital to respect and uphold the unique socio-religious and cultural fabric of Nagaland,” the statement read, stressing that this provision was instituted to safeguard the traditions and rights of the Naga people. The district unit reiterated that any attempt to impose external regulations, particularly regarding food and cultural practices, would be a violation of the rights guaranteed to the people of Nagaland.

“Nagaland’s diversity, shaped by its traditions and beliefs, should be celebrated, not curtailed,” the statement added, cautioning that initiatives that disregard the state’s customs could negatively impact social cohesion.

The party urged the organizers of the Gau Dhwaj Sthapna Bharat Yatra to reconsider their plans in Nagaland, highlighting the importance of respecting local sentiments and avoiding unnecessary tensions. In solidarity with the BJP Nagaland State, the district unit reaffirmed its commitment to promoting harmony and understanding among all communities, while preserving the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland.

“The BJP Mokokchung District remains committed to the values of harmony, coexistence, and respect for all communities,” the statement added.

MT