Shillong, Dec 1: The denial of visa to globally known Christian evangelist Rev Franklin Graham, who was scheduled to visit Nagaland, has drawn sharp reactions from Christian-dominated states in the North East, including in Meghalaya.
Joining the bandwagon, the National People’s Party (NPP) has urged the Central Government to reconsider the decision and grant visa to Rev Graham.
In a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, NPP national working president James PK Sangma expressed disappointment over the visa denial, stating that it has caused anguish among church leaders and the civil society.
“The proposed visit of Rev. Franklin Graham was seen not merely as a routine engagement, but as a moment of spiritual renewal and unity for the Naga people and for Christians across the North East,” Sangma wrote.
The NPP leaser also emphasised that the event would have contributed to peace, reconciliation, and social harmony in the region, where Christian believers form a substantial majority.
“The perception that a peaceful religious gathering has been disallowed due to visa issues risks creating misunderstanding and alienation,” he added.
While respecting the government’s prerogative to regulate entry of foreign nationals, Sangma requested a review of the decision, subject to applicable laws and conditions.
“Such a gesture would send a powerful message of India’s commitment to religious freedom and inclusiveness, and would greatly reassure the Christian communities of Nagaland and the wider North East,” he said.
