Northeast Desk, 2nd March: The Nagaland Assembly has expressed apprehension regarding the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, designed to eradicate non-scientific healing methodologies, claiming it undermines the essence of secularism.
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang initiated a debate on the issue, emphasizing that Christian Healing is a compassionate response to human suffering, irrespective of religious affiliations. Labelling it as magical healing, he argued, is an affront to the spiritual dimensions of Christian faith and life.
Highlighting the unique religious diversity of Northeast India, Zeliang underscored the region’s rich tapestry of unity in diversity. He pointed out the vibrant celebrations of various religious festivals in Nagaland’s commercial hub, Dimapur, including Deepavali, Durga Puja by Hindus, and Bakr-Id by Muslims.
Asserting the integral role of rituals and observances in Hinduism and the Christian mandate to pray and heal the sick in Jesus Christ’s name, Zeliang called upon the Assam government to revoke and abolish the Bill.
Supporting Zeliang’s stance, LJP MLA Dr. Sukhato A Sema emphasized that secularism in India entails not only the coexistence of diverse religious communities but also the separation of religion from the state. He warned that controversial laws infringing on citizens’ religious freedom jeopardize secularism’s integrity.
Despite Christians constituting a significant majority in Nagaland, Sema emphasized the state’s commitment to religious inclusivity and non-discrimination against religious minorities.
Echoing similar sentiments, BJP MLA and Minister Temjen Imna Along underscored the need for the Assam government to consider the religious beliefs and practices allowed under Christian faith.
Advisor and NDPP MLA Kudecho Khamo criticized the terminology used in the Bill, asserting that Christian healing is both scientific and divine, facilitated by the Holy Spirit through prayers. He rejected the characterization of healing practices as “magical,” insisting they are manifestations of divine intervention.
Introduced on February 21 by the Assam government, the legislation aims to eliminate non-scientific healing practices, sparking debates over its potential implications for religious freedom and secularism.
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