Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has strongly criticised Sunil Deodhar for his alleged remarks against Christians and Meghalaya, which were circulated in a video of his speech at the Indigenous Faith Conference held at Pynther in East Khasi Hills.
Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said the statements were misleading and unacceptable, describing them as provocative remarks that could create divisions among people.
He said the government has already initiated action and that Deodhar must withdraw his statements and issue a public apology for making divisive remarks. The government, he added, will take necessary steps to ensure that such statements do not recur.
Replying to queries, Sangma said Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong is aware of the matter and that the government has already held discussions on the issue since yesterday. He said steps have been initiated in accordance with the law.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that such remarks could cause hurt sentiments but urged Christians not to react in retaliation and instead uphold the spirit of forgiveness. He assured that the government would take appropriate action as per the law, reiterating that Deodhar must apologise as the remarks appeared intended to create division in society.
Meanwhile, Sangma said the government has, from the beginning, supported all faiths, communities and society as a whole. He added that the government has also extended several schemes and forms of assistance to indigenous faith groups, a fact well known to their leaders.
