Shillong (Meghalaya), Jan 4: Thma U Rangli-Juki (TUR) strongly condemns Rakkam A Sangma’s statement announcing that Capt. Williamson Sangma University, Meghalaya’s first government-established state university, will be consecrated through an exclusive Christian prayer service. This declaration is based on the misconception that Meghalaya is a Christian state solely due to its majority Christian population.
However, being a state with a predominantly Christian population does not inherently make Meghalaya a Christian state. India’s constitution emphasizes secularism, mandating that state institutions maintain equidistance from various religious groups, Rakkam Sangma’s statement directly contradicts these constitutional values.
Moreover, as a publicly funded institution, the state university should remain free from any religious influence. This ensures an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive without feeling marginalized or excluded.
TUR urges the Meghalaya government to uphold secular values and reject religious majoritarian politics. By doing so, the state can foster a culture of inclusivity, respect, and equality for all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.