SHILLONG, SEP 16: The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Monday called on the Meghalaya state government to refuse permission for the upcoming Gau Dhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra, scheduled for October 2. The party expressed concerns that the event could potentially disrupt the state’s peace and communal harmony.
In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, VPP general secretary and Shillong MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon said, “Given the sensitive nature of our state’s social fabric, we strongly urge the government not to allow the yatra to take place. The safety, peace, and unity of the people of Meghalaya must be the government’s top priority, and any event that threatens to disrupt these values should not be permitted.”
Syngkon reiterated that while the VPP fully supports the constitutional right to religious freedom, the party is alarmed by the potential impact such an event could have on the state’s communal harmony. “While we fully support and uphold the principle of freedom of religion, which is enshrined in our constitution, we are deeply troubled by the potential implications that such an event could have on the communal harmony of our state,” he stated.
He further elaborated that freedom of religion must not infringe on others’ rights or impose beliefs on lifestyle or dietary choices. “Meghalaya is a state known for its diversity, peace, and mutual respect across communities,” Syngkon emphasized. “Any event that may cause unrest or provoke tensions among different communities should be approached with extreme caution.”
The VPP also expressed concerns that the proposed yatra could lead to division and disturb the state’s peaceful coexistence. “The social and cultural diversity of our state must be respected, and we cannot allow events that may seek to undermine or challenge this balance,” Syngkon warned.
The party fears that such actions could foster misunderstanding and resentment, potentially leading to communal disharmony.