Businesses in Nagaland asked to ditch faith-based signage
Working Committee (WC) of Naga National Political Groups (NNPG), led by its convenor N Kitovi Zhimomi, has warned all business establishments in Nagaland against misusing “religion for profit
- DIMAPUR — The
Working Committee (WC) of Naga National Political Groups (NNPG), led by its
convenor N Kitovi Zhimomi, has warned all business establishments in Nagaland
against misusing “religion for profit.”
- A press release from the committee informed that it had a
meeting on Friday and decided to impose strict measures against business owners
who display religious names, “such as Hindu Hotel, Muslim Hotel, Christian
Hotel, Buddhist Hotel, and any other business establishments.”
- “This decision aims to address and discourage the
commercialisation of religious identities in the business sector,” it stated,
adding that such practices also threaten community values and social unity.
- It directed those businesses incorporating “religious names
in their branding” to remove it “from their signage and marketing materials”
within one week.
- According to the committee, Nagaland is recognised “as an
overwhelmingly Christian state, home to the largest Baptist Christian community
in the world.”
- “Despite this religious predominance, the Naga people have
successfully engaged with the broader world, embracing democratic principles
that allow for the practice of various faiths within Nagaland without
restrictions.
- “While individuals enjoy the freedom to practice their
beliefs, it is imperative to refrain from exploiting religious identities for
personal gain, as such actions can lead to disharmony and disunity within the
community,” it stated.
- The committee appreciated those business establishments that
engage in charitable activities or donation efforts aligning with their faith
practices to support the less fortunate and those in need.
- “Such endeavours contribute meaningfully to the welfare of
the community and are highly valued. At the same time, it is important to note
that any actions that contradict these principles may lead to serious
repercussions,” it added.
