KSU warns group against communalising cave issue

SHILLONG, Dec 16: Following the threat by Assam-based Kutumba Suraksha Parishad (KSP) to disrupt road communication between Assam and Meghalaya if no initiative was taken to lift the ban on worship by Hindu devotees at Mawjymbuin cave in Mawsynram, the KSU on Monday warned KSP against communalising the Mawjymbuin cave issue saying it is a tourist destination and not a place to perform religious rituals.
KSU president Lambokstar Marngar said the ultimatum by the group was an attempt by Hindu fundamentalists to crush the rights of the indigenous minorities.
He said that the Mawjymbuin issue has been handled by the Mawsynram Dorbar Shnong.
The KSU president mentioned that the Dorbar Shnong had taken the decision that it would not allow Hindu devotees to offer prayers at Mawjymbuin cave site since it is a tourist spot.
He observed that the Dorbar Shnong, which is responsible for looking after the cave, has expressed disappointment over the filth in the area surrounding the cave after Hindu rituals.
Marngar said that they will not tolerate if the Hindu right-wing group continues to provoke Meghalaya.
“We have not decided our next step since we want keep a watch on the next move of the KSP,” the KSU president added.
Reacting to the ultimatum, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma said people should practice worshipping in their homes and added that offering prayers at Mawsynram will not make any difference.
Condemning the roadblock threat by KSP, Sangma said it is improper for a religious group to make such threats since all religions exist for peace and harmony.
“We all worship God and such threats do not sound good,” he said while admitting that the sentiments of the locals of Mawsynram must be respected.
“You can worship at home; you have great mandirs (temples) in Assam. God is omnipresent. Build your temples in your home,” the minister added.