The Nagaland government has announced it will not permit the ‘Gau Mahasabha’ and ‘Gau Dhwaj Sthapana Bharat Yatra’ scheduled for September 28 in Kohima, citing strong opposition from civil society organizations and political parties.
In a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the ministers emphasized protecting the state’s religious and social practices under Article 371A of the Constitution. The decision was also influenced by concerns over public order, peace, and ethnic harmony.
The proposed event, led by Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshvaranand Saraswati, aimed to promote cow protection but faced widespread opposition from groups like the Naga Mothers’ Association and the Naga Students’ Federation, as beef is a staple food in Nagaland.
BJP State President Benjamin Yepthomi stressed the importance of considering Nagaland’s unique socio-religious and cultural context when addressing such issues.
