Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, December 11 2010:
Chief Minister Ibobi appealed to all religious leaders to advise the people as well as government to make Manipur a peaceful and developed state.
The CM made the appeal on the occasion of the inaugural function of the three day long Manipur Catholic Mission Congress.
The event is organised by the Archdiocese of Imphal at Don Bosco High School Chingmeirong.
Chief guest, O Ibobi expressed happiness at being able to take part in the observation which marks 60 years of the foundation of the Catholic Church in Manipur and the beginning of various missionary works in the state.
Under the catholic mission, various constructive and developmental steps have been taken up in education and other sectors.
The Chief Minister said that all these works are for the welfare of the people.
He said that in order to make Manipur a peaceful and stable state, the Christians in the hills and the Hindus and Muslims in the valley have significant roles to play.
He said if a politician take part in charitable works it is presumed that it is done for political gains.
However advices and suggestions from church leaders and other religious leaders are eagerly awaited and they are followed by the people.
He urged religious leaders to give good advice to the people and government for a peaceful and stable Manipur.
He further said that religion is a matter of personal choice.
So the good work done by church leaders for peace and stability is not opposed by anyone.
Freedom of religion is an undeniable right for all.
In this regard the government will make efforts to ensure economic, religious, traditional and political rights for all citizens and give a fitting definition of secularism.
Those who hinder this will not be taken lightly by the government.
He also expressed faith in the ability of such a religious congress in bringing about peace in the society and expressed desire for such congresses to be held at district levels too.
He said that the government is taking up steps to build schools in the hills of Manipur and facilities for food and lodging for people coming from the hills to Imphal.
Later the CM extended a monetary help of one lakh rupees to the organizers.
MPCC president Gaikhangam; IPR, PHED and Tourism Minister TN Haokip; and Tribal Development and Hills minister DD Thaisi were the guests of honour.
Cultural programmes from various groups and choir songs were presented.
The Catholic Mission Congress' flag was hoisted by Rev Dominic Lumon, the archbishop of Imphal.