Poppy plantation is anti-Christian: Letpao
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 15 2023:
Tribal Affairs & Hills Minister Letpao Haokip has asked the believers of Christ not to indulge in poppy cultivation but adhere to the Christian doctrines in life.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the platinum jubilee celebration of Penaching village and Penaching Baptist Church which was held today at the same village located in Chandel district.
The TA&H Minister said that discovery of mass poppy cultivation in some areas of Saikul, Churachandpur and Kangpokpi where majority of the villagers are Christians is very unfortunate.
While terming such acts as against God's will, he said that those who defy the doctrines of Christianity and commit wrong deeds in life will achieve nothing even if they go to Church and worship God regularly.
He added that cultivation of poppy and commission of crimes by some people belonging to Christian faith has tarnished the image of the religion and their villages.
Stressing on the importance of involvement in the Church activities in the process of bringing peace and development, Letpao expressed dissatisfaction at the lack of participation in the Church activities among the male youths of some Christian villages in his Constituency.
He went on to laud that the male youths of Penaching village fervently participated in singing hymns and choirs.
The Minister went on to praise that the youths and villagers of Penaching were maintaining a well organized system for healthy community life.
He also assured that he will revamp the public ground and the village roads besides extending every possible help to the villagers.
Pennaching Village Planning Committee Chairman Koko Nungchim who participated in the event informed that the Church in the village has been taking a pro-active role in shaping the youths and moral conduct of the villagers since its inception.
He exuded confidence that the spiritual preaching among the youths and villagers will go a long way in strengthening their moral conduct and glorify the village.
The function was also attended by BAP president Francis Chinir, Horticulture & Soil Conservation Director Honey Chara and Special Contractor Ng Victor as the president and guests of honour respectively.
Unveiling of a special monument and presentation of cultural events were some other highlights of the function.