Dimapur – Keeping in mind the recent conflict between Chang and Yimchungru in Tuensang, state Bishop James Thoppl of Kohima has appealed for peace and dialogue between the two communities.
The bishop made this appeal during his pastoral visit to St. Xavier’s School, Shamator and interaction with leaders of Chessor, Shamator, Pathso, Leankonger Yakore, Noklak, and Angamba villages.
He said leaving a place due to fear and misunderstanding would not solve the problem but would only leave bigger scar on the psyche of the present and future generation, leading to fragmentation and isolation.
Bishop Thoppil said the need of the hour was to sit across the table and start a dialogue to sort out issues rationally and calmly. He added that leaders must go beyond the immediate emotional issues to more rational and bring out the solutions, reported Nagalandpost.
He also said one must distinguish and separate individual and village problems and try to find solution at personal, village and regional level instead of universalizing and making it a communal problem by evaluating the issues and find solution at initial stage.
Seeing the need of education, Bishop Thoppil also promised to set up primary school by passing normal procedures and norms of the Catholic diocese. He expressed sadness and pain by observing the suffering and hardships of the people, particularly the student community due to sudden displacement.
The prelate attended the closing ceremony of St. Xavier school sports week as chief guest on March 20 and also inaugurated the new church, baptized and received new members to the church.
He also visited Pathso and Shamator and interacted with village council members. During interaction village elders expressed their regret and lamented over their ignorance by not welcoming Catholic Church decades ago thus missing the opportunities for better education in the village.