Bhadrapur, July 28: The district administration, security agencies, political parties and religious communities in Jhapa have underscored the need for preventing the activities that jeopardize religious tolerance in the wake of untoward incident in neighbouring district, Sunsari.
A meeting was organized by the District Administration Office, Jhapa at the District Coordination Committee to discuss the issues that require proper attention for avoiding any conflict. It was attended by various religious groups, local level people’s representatives, political representatives, chiefs of security agencies and social activists.
Chief District Officer Shivaram Gelal stated that the incident in Sunsari was tragic one. So, the gathering was held to discuss how precautions could be adopted in Jhapa to prevent any such incidents. Continuous and timely dialogue and cooperation among religious groups would be given priority along with coordination with all municipalities in the district to this regard, according to him.
“Religious diversity is a matter of common pride and strength. Goodwill, tolerance and mutual trust are imperative for social harmony,” said Chief District Officer Gelal reiterated.
Chair of the Inter-Religious Network, Raj Kumar Rai, said the organization was always working for maintaining unity, harmony and tolerance in the community. It has been relentlessly advocating for peaceful coexistence and unity, he added.
Chair of the Muslim Society Development Committee, Mohammad Rafi, viewed strengthening mutual respect, dialogue and cooperation among all communities were imperative at present.
Former lawmaker and Nepali Congress’ district president Deuman Thebe viewed meetings fostering harmony would be instrumental in building and retaining trust among religious organizations. All 15 local levels could do it the district, Thebe suggested. Timely vigilance by the administration is equally essential, he suggested.
Vice-chair of Kamal Rural Municipality, Pramila Neupane, reminded the constitutional provision that everyone needs respecting each other’s religion and faith. All political parties should extend supporting in resolving religious dispute, according to him.
Chief of the District Police Office, Basundhara Khadka, made it clear that there was no incident of religious conflict in Jhapa in the past. Such coordination and cooperation among security agencies, local levels, political parties and communities counts much in the coming days as well. Even the last House of Representatives election was held peacefully in district, so we should keep on peaceful atmosphere.
Other participants urged the religious communities not be swayed by rumour or provocation but contribute to strengthening religious tolerance, mutual trust and social unity from the respective sides. #nepal #rss
