Expression of one’s faith and identity is not a crime

Today, many citizens across Nagaland are deeply disappointed and concerned over the reported order banning religious and NGO-based stickers or slogans on vehicles. This decision has hurt the sentiments of countless people who peacefully express their faith, values and social concerns through simple messages displayed on their private motors.
A sticker saying “Jesus is my Saviour” “God is Great” or “Save Nature, Save Life” are never a threat to individual or public or anything.It is simply the expression of free will and identy.These are not messages of violence, hatred, or division. They are expressions of personal belief, hope, identity and awareness. In a democratic society like India, every citizen has the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression, including the peaceful expression of religious faith. Restricting such expressions raises serious concerns about personal liberty and democratic freedom.
Nagaland is a Christian state,a land where faith, culture, and community values are deeply rooted in society. Christianity has shaped the moral and social fabric of Nagaland for generations. Churches, Christian organizations, and NGOs have contributed immensely toward education, healthcare, social service, youth development, peace-building, and humanitarian work across the state. To place peaceful religious expressions in the same category as unlawful activities is painful and unacceptable to many citizens.
If any slogan promotes hatred, communal tension, obscenity, or illegal activities, action should certainly be taken under the law. No responsible citizen would oppose that. But a blanket restriction on religious and NGOs related messages is excessive and unfair. It risks creating fear among ordinary citizens who simply wish to express their faith in a peaceful manner.
Instead of diverting and capturing citizens attention to such provocative issues,
The government should prioritize more pressing issues affecting the people such as unemployment problem, road conditions, corruption phases, healthcare challenges, substance abuse, feeble economic development and public safety. A peaceful sticker carrying a message of faith or social awareness does not harm society. In fact, many such messages inspire people toward morality, kindness, environmental awareness, prayer, hope, and positive living.
A democratic government becomes stronger when it listens to the emotions and voices of its people. Suppressing harmless expressions can create unnecessary public resentment and misunderstanding. True democracy protects diversity of thought, belief, and expression, especially when those expressions are peaceful and respectful. Therefore we strongly urge and appeal the Nagaland Government to reconsider and review this order with wisdom, sensitivity and respect for the constitutional rights of the people. The voices of faith should not be silenced. The identity and spiritual heritage of Nagaland must be respected and protected. They are indeed a part of the freedom and dignity of each and every citizen.
Meghato Naga
Meluri Town