Mass prayer urges ECI to reschedule poll date
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, February 08 2022:
Along with appealing to the Election Commission of India to reschedule the first phase of polling date of the upcoming Assembly Election, which falls on a Sunday to another day, Manipur Theological College on Tuesday organised a mass prayer at the College's Chapel Hall, Dr GG Crozier Mission Compound, Kangpokpi.
Moderated by assistant professor ZN Sironbou, the mass prayer was held under the theme "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving, be made for all people - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" based on 1 Timothy 2:1-2.The theological college welcomes the announcement of the Election Commission of India to conduct elections in Manipur and prayed for the state as well as the success of the elections as it believes leaders can be from any caste, creed, sex, tribe, people group and that God will, in his wisdom pick the best for us to govern.
However, it is appalled by the election commission's decision to conduct the election on Sunday which is a sacred and auspicious day for the Christian as a worshipping community.
"We appeal to the government to not hurt the sentiments of a particular religious community and change the date for the polls", said ZN Sironbou.
Rev Dr Zimik, who led the prayer point for the state of Manipur, said: "We are a state of diversity, mixed people groups, from every possible culture, religion, and race.
We pray that we learn to live together in love, respect, and unity".
Rev Dr Paolen Haokip, who led the prayer point for the existing leaders, said: "We must be thankful for their leadership and pray for their future".
Heshi Singson, who led the prayer for the polling day, said that votes will be cast without any intimidation, coercion, free and fair election without any violence or problems.
Rev Vipunii, who led the prayer for rescheduling the poll day, said: "We pray that our religious sentiments are not hurt and shattered by having the polls on Sunday, which is rvery auspicious day for Christians".
A prayer point for all the intending candidates led by Rev Alfred Chiru said: "Let us pray for all intending candidates that they will intend to stand with pure thoughts of serving the people and not for their personal gains".
It may be recalled that All Tribal Students' Union Manipur (ATSUM) had repeatedly appealed to the Election Commission and the state government for rescheduling the poll date which falls on Sunday, February 27 to any other convenient day.
It had warned of an adverse decision which could be detrimental to the smooth conduct of the election if the election commission fails to favourably consider the appeals of CSOs and Church organisations on or before February 10 .