'MLA' advised to make preacher apologise
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 02 2023:
While strongly condemning the hateful censuring of other's cultural practices and religious belief by Christian missionary Takhellambam Ramananda, Utra Shanglen, Sana Konung 'Maichou Purel' professor Ng Kangjia Mangang demanded the 'unnamed' woman MLA, who freed preacher Ramananda from the police, to take responsibility for making him apologise to the public for his remark.
Addressing a press meet at Utra Shanglen, here, on Sunday, professor Kangjia said that the way Ramananda criticised the tradition of purifying the body with Tairen (Toona or red cedar) leaves and lighting fire at the gate after attending funeral, in a hateful manner by spitting, is rather contemptuous.
Utra Shanglen strongly condemns such act of a Meetei against the religion, culture and tradition of an indigenous community of the state.
Besides, Tairen is a medicinal plant with strong antimicrobial and antibacterial content, apart from its association with religious activities, he said.
On the other hand, Constitution of India gives equal status to all religions and prohibits malicious intention of outraging or insulting a religion or religious belief.
Those following Christianity should not insult the practice of Kom community, which has been part of their lives and identity for ages.
The way he despised the practice and spat on the idea is a direct insult to the indigenous community, Prof Kangjia said while urging the members of Kom community to come out and raise their voice against such outrageous act.
He then urged the woman MLA, who is said to have taken Ramananda from police custody, to take responsibility for tendering apology to the public by Ramananda for his misdeed, and help in resolving the issue as a responsible political figure.
Professor Kangjia further said that Meeteis respect all religions, be it indigenous or foreign.
However, Meeteis, who have converted into Christianity, are indulging in outrageous acts of demonising Sanamahi by calling Him Satan.
There are reports of such people destroying 'Ishai-phu' of Sanamahi in a scornful manner, which is unfortunate, the religious scholar said, while urging them to respect other religions and their religious beliefs.
Manipur has also a unique characteristic when it comes to religion.
Even the most hard core Hindu followers like Brahmins as well as other Hindu followers also worship Sanamahi in their homes while adopting the best practices out of the two religions.
This unique blend of religions could not be found anywhere in the world, he pointed out, while urging the Meetei Christians to follow such beautiful practice, worship Sanamahi in their homes and celebrate Cheiraoba, while practicing their beliefs of Christianity.
Kangjia Mangang also offered to contribute in construction of churches if they follow such practices.
Meeteis mainly follow three religions and it could be used as a beautiful opportunity for promoting peaceful co-exis tence while understanding the best practices of the three, he added.