Denominational Nationalism destroying Naga Nationalism?

Ukhrul, 3 Nov: Stressing on the issue of Naga movement’s constant mixing of Religion and Politics, Dr. Rev Fr. TS Dominic said there is no division between religion and politics in the tenure of NSCN Gen Secretary Th. Muivah. Instead of National Movement, it seemed to be taking the turn of denominational movement which is destroying the sanctity of Naga movement. He was one of the speaker at the ongoing five-day 'Soldiers of Christ Get Together' where inter denominational discourses, fasting program and prayers are held at Hunphun Baptist Church, Ukhrul, Manipur on Thursday.

Speaking on the theme of ‘Oneness in Christ’, Dr. Rev Fr. TS Dominic emphasized on the importance of how God created human in his image and likeness and that itself called for respect for every human being, regardless. However, we often overlooked the message by identifying people as a Hindu, a Muslim, a Christian, etc. and treated/judged them accordingly. He called out on the attitude of ‘I better than thou', among different Christian churches, thus assuming an attitude of self-righteousness over others. He mused that such an attitude dethrones the supremacy of God above all.

Recalling the incident of Leingangching village in Ukhrul district, 2017, where the majority Baptist villagers chased out five families because they decided to convert to Catholic church, Fr. TS Dominic said the abject lack of respect for fellow human being was not what Christianity stood for. And he likened the incident to that of the Germans under Hitler, who killed millions of Jews.

Dr. Rev. Fr. Dominic was then the Parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, Hungpung and led the cause of the church. He, supported by Catholic community, undertook the non violent protest against the inhuman law of the majority Baptist villagers: 'One village, one denomination'. He noted that the Naga national leaders did nothing to right the wrong, but found covertly supporting the intolerant law. It must be noted that Yangmi Haorei, a Catholic is still missing on account of this dragonian law.

He agreed that as a national worker, one should be convinced of ones religion, whether Baptist, Catholic, SDA, Church of Christ or God, “but his/her religion should not interfere politics”. While he is convinced that we should have our own land and looks toward our own self rule, he lamented that looking back at various past incidents, he is afraid he may not be counted as Naga because he’s a Catholic. Even the drafted Naga Constitution is proofed as only one denomination is mentioned - Hao (traditional practice) and Christianity within bracket, ‘Baptist’. In that respect he questioned where the other denominations will be included aftermath of the successful Naga movement.

For the purpose of reflection, he asked, “Am I not Naga because I am a Catholic? Am I not Naga because I am an SDA?” He appealed Naga national leaders and elders to seriously think over where the movement is headed to - towards Naga National movement or Denominational movement and right this wrong - sooner rather than later.

Acknowledging that many have sacrificed their lives for the movement, he felt that the current narrow minded approach of the Naga movement is not worthy to die for. He strongly called for inclusive approach of the movement so that every Nagas regardless of denominations and beliefs will be accommodated as one people. He concluded his speech with an appeal to fight the Naga movement together with strong faith, bringing in the best humane values of their own respective religions.

Dr. Rev. Fr. TS Dominic appreciated 'Soldiers of Christ' Group for inviting him and organizing such inclusive event and hoped that it will helped achieve a wholesome Naga National movement.
@Ekhon
@Soldiers of Christ