DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 1 (MExN): The Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) has urged the government to ban ‘satanic worship’ in the state, while at the same time warning that the Legislative Assembly’s decision to deliberate on the issue could unintentionally promote what it described as a ‘universally rejected practice.’
In a memorandum to the Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, the forum wrote, “By according official attention to ‘satanic worship’ in the Assembly, the government risks unintentionally promoting or legitimizing something that does not even have a structured existence. Discussions at such a high platform might draw curiosity and publicity, which could work against the intended purpose.”
The memorandum was signed by President Rev. Dr. N. Paphino, Vice President Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao, Secretary Rev. Moses Murry, Joint Secretary Dr. Fr. George Pono, Finance Secretary and Treasurer Ithontele Seb, and advisors Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho and Khyomo Lotha.
At the same time, the Forum made a clear appeal for prohibition, arguing that while the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, “it does not extend to practices that are harmful or contrary to public order.” It stated that ‘satanic worship’ “has no place in our society” and asked the Speaker to take steps to ban it in Nagaland.
“As you are aware, satanic worship is universally condemned across religions and cultures. As a predominantly Christian state, Nagaland has always upheld values that reject such practices. We strongly believe that satanic worship has no place in our society,” it said.
The Forum presented three points to support its position. It described satanic worship as a “universally rejected practice” that is “not an organized religion in our society but rather a ritual practice” condemned by civil law and spiritual teaching. It warned that Assembly debate itself might create curiosity and visibility. And it pointed to scripture, saying, “Scripture clearly grants authority to believers in Jesus Christ to resist and cast out Satan (Luke 10:19, Mark 16:17). The government's role is to uphold laws, order, and justice, while the Church addresses spiritual warfare. Therefore, we should prohibit the Satanic worship, otherwise, if left unchecked, it will spoil many young people even to the extent of destroying family values and social positive fabric.”
The Forum added:”The Church's intention is to ensure that satanic worship is prohibited in Nagaland, as this reflects genuine concern for the well-being of our society.”
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