SHILLONG: Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, on Thursday, has strongly condemned the recent incident involving the harassment of a Christian missionary nun in Assam.
In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, the education minister stressed on the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially minorities, in the region.
Highlighting the need for accountability, the Minister said, “Such acts of discrimination against Christian minorities are unacceptable in our democratic nation, particularly in states like Assam, which share a close bond with Meghalaya.”
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Sangma informed the Assembly that his government had taken note of the incident and had already initiated discussions with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to ensure appropriate action is taken against the perpetrators.
The incident in question, which occurred on February 17, has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, including Opposition Trinamool Congress and Meghalaya Congress.
Trinamool Congress’ Charles Pyngrope Pyngrope highlighted that such harassment is unwarranted and unprecedented, urging the Meghalaya government to promptly address the issue with its Assam counterpart.
Opposition leader Ronnie V Lyngdoh of the Congress also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister through the Speaker, addressing the matter at hand.
Earlier, Sister Rosemary, a member of St. John’s Parish in Siju, found herself subjected to insults targeting her religious habit and faith while traveling to Goalpara.
The harassment reached such a level that she was forced to seek assistance and guidance from others, highlighting the traumatic nature of the ordeal.
The Education Minister’s statement reflected the broader sentiment in Meghalaya, where there is a strong sense of solidarity with Sister Rosemary and a firm stance against any form of discrimination or harassment based on religion.
As the authorities continue to investigate the incident, there is a collective hope that the perpetrators will be swiftly brought to justice.
