Nongpoh, Meghalaya: On Saturday, June 10, a significant gathering of over 300 individuals, including religious fathers, brothers, and sisters from Ribhoi district, Shillong, and Guwahati, took place at the MUDA complex in Nongpoh. This peace and solidarity program, organized by the Ribhoi CRI unit, aimed to address pressing issues and promote unity, justice, and peace.
The event featured captivating performances, including peace songs and dances by Nathalie Warjri, St. Stephen Convent Hostel girls, Claretian aspirants, and FMA aspirants expressing the spirit of unity and harmony through their remarkable performances.
The program also included a silent rally, where participants displayed posters advocating peace, solidarity, and justice for all. The visually impactful rally served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for collective action and social change.
Br. Sunil Britto, the main organizer of the event, shed light on the purpose behind the gathering. He stated, “From the targeted violence against Christians and tribals in Manipur to the relentless attacks on Church personnel and institutions and the disturbing normalization of hate speeches, our country is witnessing a wave of alarming events.”
Prominent figures from various religious congregations graced the event as guests of honor: Br. Varghese, NE Regional CRI President; Sr. Escociana Vaz, NE Regional CRI Secretary; Sr. Prema Chowallur, Convenor of North East FORUM of Religious for Justice and Peace; Sr. Teresa Kamasuam, CRI Shillong President and her team; and Fr. Laurence Kharluni, Shillong Archdiocese Representative, lent their support and added significance to the gathering.
During the event, Kong Meristela Lamare, President of the Nongpoh Women’s Guild, expressed her shock and dismay at the treatment endured by women wrestlers at the hands of the government.
Sr. Melita Syiem, in a heartfelt address, conveyed her deep sorrow and concern for the tragic events unfolding in Manipur. She emphasized the need for solidarity and action in the face of these challenges.
Br. Varghese articulated the purpose of the silent protest, stating, “We are here to silently protest against what is happening in the state of Manipur and in many parts of our country.”
The Conference of Religious India (CRI) has been organizing similar programs across the country, including recent programs held in Mangalore and Bangalore last week.