By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 13: In the aftermath of the violence in West Garo Hills, the Shillong Muslim Forum has written to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, appealing for peace, communal harmony and protection of places of worship.
Expressing deep concern over the incidents of violence and destruction of property, including vandalisation of the Tura Jama Masjid and other establishments, the forum said that such incidents disturb the longstanding peace and harmony that communities in Meghalaya have shared for generations.
It condemned all forms of violence and vandalism of places of worship, community institutions, and public property, irrespective of the community or organisation involved. The forum said that as members of a minority community who have lived in Meghalaya for generations, they deeply value peaceful co-existence and mutual respect which they share with tribal brothers and sisters. “We also understand and respect the concerns of indigenous communities regarding issues such as illegal immigration. As genuine non-tribal Muslims of Shillong, who are part of the social fabric of the state, we fully support lawful efforts to safeguard the rights, identity, and interests of the indigenous people of Meghalaya,” the organisation said.
It further stated that the recent public calls of “No Allahu Akbar in Meghalaya” have caused concern and hurt the sentiments of the members of the community.
“We also wish to respectfully clarify that the phrase “Allahu Akbar,” meaning “God is the Greatest,” is a sacred expression of faith used by Muslims during daily prayers and religious observances. Like every religion, which has its own sacred expressions and ways of remembering and glorifying God in their respective languages and traditions, this phrase holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims,” the forum stated.
It condemned the misuse of any religious expression in acts of violence or wrongdoing, and urged that all faith expressions be treated with understanding and respect so that every community in Meghalaya continues to feel secure and valued.
The forum sought protection of all places of worship and community institutions, as well as appropriate steps to prevent such incidents. It was hopeful that the government will take all necessary measures to maintain communal harmony and uphold the spirit of mutual respect among all communities in the state.
