Authorities assure stringent legal measures as the act of religious provocation in Mawlinung village was widely condemned
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — In a disturbing incident in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district, a youth entered a church in Mawlinung village and chanted the Hindu slogan of “Jai Shri Ram,” an action that has been widely condemned for hurting religious sentiments. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, has led to the registration of a case by the local police, with an investigation underway to apprehend the accused.
The individual, identified as Akash Sagar, reportedly entered the church premises and raised the slogan while filming the act and sharing it on social media platforms, triggering outrage across the state. The video quickly went viral, prompting various groups, including local authorities, social activists, and political leaders, to condemn the incident.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma strongly condemned the act, describing it as a deliberate attempt to disturb the peaceful atmosphere in the state. He expressed concern over the growing incidents of religious discord and affirmed that the government would take every necessary step to prevent any further social, religious, or communal unrest.
“We are taking this matter very seriously,” Chief Minister Sangma stated. “This act seems to have been done deliberately to provoke unrest. We, as the state government, will leave no stone unturned to prevent anyone from creating such tensions.” He assured that legal action was already in progress, as authorities acted swiftly in response to the complaint filed by social activist Angela Rangad.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, Sylvester Nongtingar, confirmed that a case had been registered at the Panwarsala police station following the incident. The accused is under investigation, and the police are working diligently to apprehend him.
“We are taking necessary steps to investigate this case thoroughly,” said SP Nongtingar. “We understand the gravity of the situation, and we are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice.”
The incident was brought to the attention of the authorities when Angela Rangad, a prominent social activist, filed a complaint on Thursday. Rangad has demanded swift and stern legal action, asserting that Sagar’s actions were part of a deliberate conspiracy to cause division and unrest.
“This was a premeditated act meant to disturb the peace and harmony of our society,” Rangad remarked. “By entering the church altar and raising slogans, he has not only disrespected a place of worship but has also violated the constitutional rights that guarantee religious freedom and dignity for all communities.”
The incident has sparked strong reactions from various quarters. A Hindu organisation in the state condemned the actions of the individual, though it did not support the means by which the protest was carried out.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has also expressed its dismay over the incident, condemning the viral video and the act of religious provocation. Naba Bhattacharya, President of the Christian Progressive Council (CPC), said, “We are deeply saddened to see such an incident unfold. It has hurt the religious sentiments of the people of Meghalaya. We strongly condemn the act and demand that the police take strict action against the individual as per the law.”
Bhattacharya also urged all parties to maintain calm and not let this incident escalate into broader religious discord. “We must remember that our state has long been a symbol of peace and religious harmony. It is imperative that we uphold these values, especially in the face of such provocations,” he added.
Meghalaya, a state known for its diversity and rich cultural heritage, has witnessed sporadic instances of religious tension in recent years. The incident in Mawlinung has further highlighted the delicate balance the state has managed to maintain between various communities.
In a region where multiple religions coexist peacefully, this incident has raised concerns about growing intolerance. Local leaders and citizens alike have called for unity and a return to the state’s tradition of peaceful coexistence.
“The act of one individual should not define the peace and harmony of our community,” remarked Reverend John Lyngdoh, a local church leader. “We must stand together, irrespective of our religion, to preserve the dignity of every community and ensure that such acts of provocation are not allowed to sow division.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging citizens to refrain from spreading inflammatory content that may further escalate tensions. The chief minister has assured that the government will continue to take a firm stance against any attempts to disrupt the social fabric of the state.
“We cannot allow anyone to destroy the peaceful coexistence we have worked so hard to build,” Chief Minister Sangma reiterated. “This is a matter of upholding the values of tolerance, respect, and unity that we hold dear in Meghalaya.”
While legal measures are being taken, the incident has sparked a larger conversation about the role of social media in amplifying religious tensions. Experts have warned that while the digital space offers a platform for free expression, it also has the potential to spread misinformation and inflame existing prejudices.
“We must be mindful of the power social media holds in shaping public opinion and influencing societal attitudes,” said Dr Suman Singh, a political analyst based in Shillong. “It is crucial that we use these platforms responsibly and work towards fostering understanding rather than division.”
As the case unfolds, all eyes are on the actions taken by the state government, the police, and civil society to ensure that the rule of law prevails, and that the delicate religious harmony of Meghalaya is preserved for future generations.
