OpinionOn NJCF’s opposition to proposed ban on satanic worship

On NJCF’s opposition to proposed ban on satanic worship

We, the leadership of Jehovah Sabaoth International Ministry, a non -denomination Ministry feel compelled to express our deep concern and shock regarding the recent actions of Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) who have led and orchestrated an eleventh-hour strong opposition to the proposed ban on Satanic worship in Nagaland, just as the bill was about to be discussed in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA).
We believe this blunt and rude opposition was not only hasty without valid reasons but deeply misleading and lacked moral, spiritual, and ecclesiastical authority. Our independent investigation has revealed that the statement issued under the banner of the NJCF was made without slightest consent or knowledge of their respective Church Councils, who were neither consulted nor authorized the said position.
The article in the Nagaland Post (dated September 2, 2025), titled “MLA Proposes; NJCF Opposes,” confirms the unprecedented development:
“The Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), a conglomeration of denominational churches, strongly opposed the proposal to raise the issue of ‘Prohibition of Satanic Worship in Nagaland’ in the Assembly…”
Ironically, while the NJCF letter acknowledges that Satanic worship is universally condemned, it argues against even discussing the issue publicly, claiming it may “unintentionally promote” such practices. This logic is deeply flawed. In truth, failing to confront evil gives it room to grow in secrecy—which is precisely what we are witnessing in Nagaland today.
Rev. Dr.Zelhou Keyho, during his tenure as General Secretary of the NBCC, was approached by our Ministry regarding the alarming rise of Satanic practices disguised in Christian forms of worship. Unfortunately, he bluntly refused to be involved with the issue. Similarly, Rev. Dr. N. Paphino, President NJCF, initially agreed that action was necessary for protection of our fragile youth. But when the bill was about to be tabled, he and others reversed course and spearheaded its opposition without consulting their Councils or constituents.
This raises serious questions:
• Whose interests are they really defending?
• Why are discussions on a growing threat being silenced in a democratic forum?
• Why would Christian leaders oppose legislation aimed at protecting our youth from deceptive and dangerous spiritual practices?
We view the objection to a legislative debate—not the practice itself—as an attempt to shield and legitimize such evil by silence, and we consider it deeply motivated and irresponsible.
Furthermore, the fact that absolutely no consent or consultations were held with their respective Church Councils before issuing such a position reveals adisorder autocratic style of leadership. Such actions damage the credibility of the Church and harm the spiritual health of our society.
As a Christian-majority state, Nagaland must take a clear, united, and uncompromising stand against any practice that promotes or glorifies darkness, evil, or deception—especially when it is masquerading under Christian symbols in disguise to attack Christians. Jesus Christ said “The thief (Satan) has come to steal, kill and destroy” then knowing fully well why the silence being needed in defence for the Devil and its Mission by our supposed leaders today?
We reiterate our support for any legislative effort aimed at banning Satanic worship in Nagaland and call upon:
• Church leaders across denominations to review the facts independently,
• Government authorities to pursue this matter courageously and transparently, and
• All believers and responsible citizens to speak out against deception in all its forms.
Let us not forget that silence in the face of evil is itself a form of complicity. The Church must not be found sleeping while the enemy is at work.
In prayer and vigilance,
Khotuo Yaotsu
President, Jehovah Sabaoth International Ministry
Avi Yongo
Secretary, Jehovah Sabaoth International Ministry

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