NECRF urges Assam Chief Minister to address issues targeting Christians

• Image Credit: Internet

• Mar 4, 2024 | Srijani Purkayastha

A memorandum outlining instances of discrimination and harassment faced by the Christian and tribal communities in the state.

Digital desk: In response to increasing concern over the targeting of Christians and tribals in Assam, the North East Catholic Research Forum (NECRF) has appealed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for intervention. Expressing disappointment over Sarma's silence on the issue, the non-partisan organization, comprising 38 members, submitted a memorandum outlining instances of discrimination and harassment faced by the Christian and tribal communities in the state. 

Highlighting the consequences of such actions, NECRF warned that they could not only foster discord among communities but also disrupt the prevailing peace in the region, with ripple effects beyond Assam's borders. One specific concern raised by NECRF is the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, introduced in the Assam Legislative Assembly on February 21. 

The forum expressed apprehension about certain provisions in the bill, particularly the use of terms like "magic healing" or "magical healing," which it believes could be misused by innocent individuals. NECRF urged Chief Minister Sarma to reconsider the language used in the bill, advocating for the removal of what it describes as "controversial terms" to prevent potential misinterpretations. 

According to NECRF, such amendments are necessary to protect the rights and freedoms of minority communities in Assam. The memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to uphold the principles of equality and harmony within the state.