Tura BJP MDC Bernard Marak has strongly condemned the desecration of a statue of Jesus Christ at a village in Chibinang in Phulbari area West Garo Hills (WGH). The incident allegedly took place during the violence that rocked the Gar Hills region last month. During his recent visit to Chibinang and the surrounding villages affected by the recent conflict, Marak was informed by local residents about the incident that was not reported in the media. The people expressed anguish that the matter had been allegedly suppressed despite its serious nature. As per a statement from the BJP leader, he was informed that a mob — largely comprising of illegal migrants — was instigated and provoked by former MLA and MDC, Esmatur Mominin.
The mob allegedly engaged in widespread violence, including the burning of shops and residential houses, and deliberately targeted religious symbols, including the destruction of the statue of Jesus Christ. “The remains of the desecrated statue at Chibinang Bazar stand as a painful testament to what appears to be a targeted attack against the Christian community. Such acts not only violate the law but also threaten communal harmony and religious freedom guaranteed under the Constitution of India,” he stated. Bernard expressed concern on the fact that no FIR was filed in this connection till date and resolved to do so at the earliest.