The Catholic Church has strongly condemned the deplorable acts of some 'Christian fundamentals' in Mizoram who have burnt images of Hindu deities and the Indian National Flag in Lunglie District of the state.
"Those who have committed these acts cannot and should not profess to be Christians," read a statement from Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI).
In a video that went viral on social media on Sept. 21, a group of Mizo youths burnt an idol of Hindu god Lord Ganesha and the Indian National Flag after pouring petrol. Few were seen holding the "Cross", the Christian religious symbol. The fundamental group's leader identified as Lalrinawma holding a Bible is heard delivering a confrontational speech, quoting from the Bible how idol worship is outlawed in Christianity.
The CBCI said in the statement released on Oct. 6 that it "unequivocally denounces this deplorable act."
"We want to state very clearly that we stand firmly against any sort of fundamentalism, wherever it may come from. Any attempt to cause division and sow hatred is against the principles of Christianity and against humanity," read the statement signed by Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, secretary general, CBCI.
The Christian churches have always stood for national unity, peace and harmony among all peoples. Churches reject intolerance and profess its profound respect for every religion, it added.
"We share the pain of our Hindu brethren, who would be hurt and upset by this unfortunate and unacceptable incident," read the statement.
"The Catholic Church reiterates that religion is meant for building bridges and constructing lives of people. It cannot be used and should never be utilized for spreading hatred against fellow human beings," it added.
