The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Meghalaya unit has urged former National Secretary and senior member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sunil Deodhar to issue a public apology for his alleged remarks which have hurt the sentiments of Christians.
Deodhar made the remarks while addressing a recent gathering at Pynther in Pynursla Sub-Division of Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district.
In a letter addressed to Deodhar, BJP Meghalaya State General Secretary Wankitbok Pohshna stated that the comments were perceived as offensive. The objections centered on alleged derogatory references to the Bible and to Jesus Christ, which, he said, caused distress among Christians in the state and others who value interfaith harmony.
Also Read: SHG membership in Meghalaya grows from 40,000 to 5.8 lakh in 8 years: CM
Pohshna described such statements inappropriate in a modern and progressive society, noting that even the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently shown respect for the Christian community by celebrating Christmas and highlighting the teachings of Jesus Christ.
At the same time, Pohshna reaffirmed the party’s support for the preservation and promotion of the indigenous Khasi faith, Niam Khasi Niamtre.
Meanwhile, responding to the controversy, Deodhar clarified that his address at the Indigenous Faith Conference in Pynther was not meant to target Christianity. He said he respects Jesus Christ and the Christian community and expressed regret if his remarks had hurt religious sentiments.
