Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, the bishop of Nagaland, called for peaceful and responsible elections, abjuring all forms of violence and aggressive campaign and he invited all voters to follow the principles and values of the “Clean Election Campaign.”
In a press release the bishop appealed to the conscience of individuals to exercise their fundamental right with utmost seriousness and responsibility. Referring to the Bible, the release said “As you sow, so shall you reap”, adding that that if we vote unethically, we will also reap such fruits. “We have the duty to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar (cf. Mk 12:17) and pray for those in authority (cf. 1 Tim. 2:2)” he stated.
Thoppil said that the Church does not endorse or speak in favour candidates or parties adding that voters should use promotion of the common good as a guide and indicator to make the correct decision. The Bishop added that it was the duty of Christians to prayerfully seek God’s guidance.
He also said that in today’s environment, voters need serious reflection, knowledge of Church teachings and awareness of who the candidate is and where they stand on the issues that affect public and private life. The Bishop was of the view that voting was a serious moral decision that will affect not only the future course of the country and many innocent lives, but salvation as well.
The press release stated that since one cannot objectively and subjectively know all the overt and covert intentions and aspirations of the different ideologies proposed by various groups and individuals, the bishop appealed to the conscience of every individual to exercise their fundamental right responsibly and with utmost seriousness, knowing well that one’s vote counts not only for the present but for the future.
Sunday, May 3, 2026