People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) consensus candidate for the Lok Sabha elections in Nagaland, Dr Chumben Murry, vowed he would be the voice of the Nagas if elected.
Addressing an election campaign at Longsa village Thursday, Dr. Chumben assured he would also act as a bridge between the Nagas and Delhi and work tirelessly for peace, stability and development. Refuting the allegations of BJP being anti-Christian, the PDA candidate said religion should not be used as a card for political interest.
He pointed out that India has huge Hindu population but not all Hindus hold anti-Christian sentiments. Further, Dr Chumben said those elements holding anti-Christian views were just a small percentage of Hindus.
The PDA candidate also accused Congress party of using religion only as a card for political gain. He said Congress focused only on problems and never spoke about bringing solution. He also alleged that persecution of Christians took place even before the BJP came to power. On the other hand, while acknowledging that persecution of Christians continue, Dr. Chumben, assured that, if elected he would join the Northeast Christian Forum and diligently work to uplift the Christians and to minimise hurting the sentiments of Christians.
Dr Chumben also reiterated that he is a devout Christian “chosen by God to serve the people.”
In reaffirmation of the PDA government’s commitment of prioritizing the interests of the Naga people, Dr. Chumben pointed out that AFSPA, which was brought in by the Congress in 1958, was being gradually lifted from many parts of the state. He claimed it was due to the efforts of the present government. He also reiterated that Nagaland has been excluded from the purview UCC and CAA.
Also, addressing the campaign, advisor Mhathung Yanthan, MLA, asserted that Dr. Chumben Murry was Nagaland’s favourite candidate. He highlighted Dr. Chumben’s popularity and intellect and assured voters of the candidate’s credibility and while seeking their support.
Yanthan urged upon all to maintain unity and encouraged voters to elect Dr. Chumben. He also dismissed accusations that the BJP was an anti-Christian party. Yanthan claimed that all the MLAs in the state were devout Christians and they would never compromise on faith and identity.
Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA, expressed confidence that Dr. Murry would emerge victorious and predicted that the Congress candidate might not even secure 1 lakh votes. Humtsoe reminded that all 60 MLAs and eight political parties are fully backing Dr. Chumben and therefore urged the voters to seize the opportunity wisely. Former BJP candidate from 38 AC, Renponthung Ezung, also spoke at the programme.