First time in Nagaland...Religion becomes the talking point during elections
Source: The Sangai Express / Courtesy - The Indian Express

Dimapur, February 22 2018: Free and subsidised trips to Jerusalem, appeals to not vote for those who want to 'pierce the heart of Jesus Christ', alleged circulation of hate posters on religious lines, and speeches laced with theological rhetoric.

For the first time in Nagaland, a predominantly Christian majority State, religion has emerged as major poll plank for the 13th Nagaland Legislative Assembly elections.

And the religious pitch is getting shrill every passing day.

The BJP's Phek unit recently lodged an FIR at Pfutsero police station, under Phek district, against violation of the election code of conduct.

The BJP Phek unit president alleged that "some political party men have launched hate poster campaign" against the 17 A/C BJP candidate Kevechutso Duolo.

The party was referring to posters of Hindu goddesses and Hindutva propaganda pasted on the gate of a local Church and other areas.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), considered the parent organisation of the BJP, has been finding mention in the campaign speeches of non-BJP parties, barring BJP ally NDPP.

And references to the BJP as a communal party has become the highlight of speeches, particularly in Constituencies where the BJP has fielded its candidates.

In response, BJP said "all candidates are Christians" and that the party remained committed to protect and defend their faith at all costs.

BJP leaders have been engaged in a war of words with NPF president, Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu, a veteran politician and a hardcore regionalist.

In Nagaland, votes are cast more on the lines of individual candidates, village and clan affiliations than by parties' symbols and ideologies.

But this time around, the Lotus symbol of the BJP has created unease among the Naga electorate.

BJP has been part of the alliance led by the ruling NPF since 2003, but its clout in the State politics has multiplied manifolds with the party ruling in the Centre.

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