By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 20: Governor CH Vijayashankar on Friday called on the state’s faith leaders to step beyond the confines of their institutions and dedicate their lives to uplifting society, asserting that the growing crises of drug abuse, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and cancer demand urgent collective action.
Speaking at the 32nd All-Faith All Religion Annual “Get Together of Harmony” in Shillong, Vijayashankar described these challenges as a social emergency that cannot be solved by government efforts alone. He stressed that faith leaders, by virtue of their moral influence, carry a responsibility to engage more closely with the youth, guide them away from destructive habits, and instil in them the values of discipline, compassion, and purpose.
The Governor underlined that the doors of the Raj Bhavan would remain open to anyone or any group working with sincerity for the betterment of Meghalaya, signalling his willingness to extend institutional support to the grassroots initiatives. His message was framed not merely as an appeal but as a call to action, urging faith leaders to work together in shaping a healthier and more resilient society.
The gathering also featured a “Prayer for Harmony,” a symbolic gesture that highlighted the need for understanding and unity in a state marked by cultural and religious diversity. The interfaith prayer was intended to reaffirm that cooperation across religions is not only possible but necessary in addressing the social challenges facing Meghalaya.
Naba Bhattacharjee, the president of the Central Puja Committee, echoed the spirit of inclusiveness by invoking Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy of universal religion. He emphasised that the true strength of any society lies in its ability to respect all faiths while encouraging cooperation among them, adding that harmony must translate into tangible action.
The annual event, long seen as a platform for interfaith dialogue in the state, gained added weight this year with the Governor’s pointed warning about the dangers of drugs and disease. For many of those present, the message served as a reminder that unity among faith communities is not only a moral ideal but also a practical necessity in overcoming the crises that continue to undermine Meghalaya’s social fabric.
Youth leader Alisha Marba Rani addressed the gathering on the role of youth from different faiths in inclusively strengthening the harmony bond, followed by cultural presentations by the Mahila Samity of CPC Meghalaya.
One of the highlights of the event was the all-faith prayer, where leaders representing various faiths came together with the Governor, symbolising the true spirit of unity, brotherhood, and harmony.
The programme was attended by Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai, the Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission Shillong, Swami Hitakamanandaji Maharaj, and members of various Puja Committees of Shillong, among others.
