Slur on Catholic Church, late Pope piques group

TURA, April 29: Derogatory remarks made on social media against the Catholic faith and the head of the Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis, who was laid to rest on Saturday, has drawn strong condemnation from the Garo Hills Catholic Union (GHCU), which has demanded an immediate apology from those responsible.
In a press statement issued by GHCU secretary HN Marak, the Union stated that posts shared by a Facebook group named ‘The Garo Hills Times Now’ and an individual identified as Ephilson Sangma were made with malicious intent to ridicule the Catholic Church and the late Pope.
The Union asserted that such irresponsible content not only deeply hurt the sentiments of Catholic faithful in particular but also spread misinformation, inciting unnecessary division and hostility within an otherwise peaceful community.
“All religions, their teachings, and their leaders must be treated with respect and dignity. We will not tolerate any attempt to malign or ridicule our faith,” the statement said.
In this regard, the Union has demanded that the author or administrator of ‘The Garo Hills Times Now’, its “anonymous participant,” and Ephilson Sangma issue a public apology within 48 hours of the release of the statement.
Additionally, each individual is expected to submit a personal apology to the GHCU within the same timeframe. Failing to do so, the Union warned, would lead to strong and appropriate legal and social action against the offenders.
Reaffirming its commitment to uphold the dignity and sanctity of the Catholic Church, the GHCU warned that any future attempts to insult, demean, or spread malicious propaganda against the Church or its leadership would be met with swift and decisive action.
The Union also urged social media users and the public at large to act responsibly and ensure that the right to freedom of expression is not misused to cause division or spread misconceptions among communities or religious groups.