Nagaland: NSF flays Centre’s denialof visa to Rev Franklin

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed deep disappointment and strong condemnation of the Government of India’s decision to deny visa to evangelist Rev. Franklin Graham, which resulted in the abrupt cancellation of his much-anticipated visit to Kohima, stating that the action amounted to discrimination against the Christian community and an assault on the constitutional freedom of faith.
In a press note, NSF president Mteisuding Heraang and general secretary Kenilo Kent said the decision had deeply hurt the sentiments of the Nagas, who had been preparing to welcome Rev Franklin.
It stated that his visit was expected to be a moment of spiritual significance and community strengthening and that the abrupt denial of permission had caused widespread resentment and sadness.
NSF raised serious concern regarding the role of the state government, particularly as it continued in alliance with the BJP-led government, whose policies, in the perception of many, had increasingly marginalized and suppressed the Christian community across the country.
Despite the gravity of the issue and the emotions of the people, the federation said the state government had failed to intervene, question or condemn the Centre’s decision.
It said an equally disturbing matter was the inconsistency displayed by the Government of India, stating that while it had relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirements for visitors attending the Hornbill Festival, it had simultaneously denied a visa to Rev. Franklin Graham.
NSF said the contradictory approach reflected a selective and discriminatory policy mindset, appearing to welcome commercial or tourism-related visitors while restricting those associated with Christian spiritual engagements.
NSF strongly condemned such practices and called upon the Government of India to uphold the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom without bias or political agenda and to provide transparency on the grounds and rationale for denying Franklin Graham’s visa.