Naga Students' Federation slams visa denial to Franklin Graham

DIMAPUR — The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has expressed disappointment and condemned the Government of India's decision to deny a visa to evangelist Franklin Graham, leading to the sudden cancellation of his highly anticipated visit to Kohima.

In a press release, the NSF stated that the action amounts to discrimination against the Christian community and an assault on the constitutional freedom of faith.

“The decision has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Naga people, who had been preparing with great anticipation to welcome Franklin Graham.

“His visit was expected to be a moment of spiritual significance and community strengthening and the abrupt denial of permission has caused widespread resentment and sadness,” the federation stated.

The NSF also raised concerns about the state government's role, particularly its alliance with the BJP-led Government, whose policies are perceived to have marginalised and suppressed the Christian community.

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The federation noted that despite the issue's gravity and public sentiment, the state government has failed to intervene, question, or condemn the Centre's decision.

“Equally disturbing is the troubling inconsistency displayed by the Government of India. While the GoI has chosen to relax the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirements for visitors attending the Hornbill Festival, it has simultaneously denied a visa to Franklin Graham.

“This contradictory approach reflects a selective and discriminatory policy mindset, one that appears to welcome commercial or tourism-related visitors while restricting those associated with Christian spiritual engagements,” it stated.

The NSF condemned the alleged discriminatory practices and urged the Government of India to uphold the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom without bias or political agenda. It also demanded transparency on the grounds and rationale behind the denial of Franklin Graham's visa.