Religious leaders call for religious tolerance, peace and national unity

Kathmandu: Leaders from various religious communities have called on all Nepali citizens to stand firmly in favor of peace, harmony, religious tolerance, rule of law and national unity.

Following a discussion held at Singha Durbar on Friday under the initiative of Rastriya Swatantra Party President Ravi Lamichhane, Muslim and Hindu community leaders issued a joint appeal urging people to reject all forms of violence, hatred and divisive activities.

The religious leaders appealed to citizens to remain alert against activities that threaten Nepal’s centuries-old religious tolerance and social harmony. They also called on local administrations, security agencies, political parties, religious leaders, civil society, media and all concerned stakeholders to play an active role in restoring peace, security and social harmony through dialogue, cooperation and responsibility.

The joint appeal was signed by Ram Chandra Tiwari, General Secretary of World Hindu Federation Nepal; Maulana Mohammad Khalid Siddiqui, President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Nepal and Secretariat Member of the Federation; Rajuraj Phuyal; and President of Al Salam Society, Maulana Nazrul Hasan Falahi.

“The essence of all religions is to promote human welfare, encourage tolerance and strengthen social unity and brotherhood. It is our collective responsibility to strengthen social unity by accepting that no religion discriminates against or humiliates followers of other religions,” the appeal stated.

The leaders requested the government to investigate the facts behind incidents in Sunsari, Siraha and other districts of Madhesh Province, take action against those involved in illegal activities, provide necessary relief and appropriate compensation to the families of victims, and ensure free and effective treatment for the injured.

“While various vested interests are attempting to spread violent incidents in the name of religion, we request all citizens to maintain restraint and not engage in provocative, hateful or disruptive activities,” the appeal stated.

Stating that Nepal is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic, multilingual and multicultural country, the leaders said that religious tolerance, social harmony and mutual respect are the foundation of national unity and identity. “We are clear that national unity and identity should not be weakened due to any incident or dispute,” the appeal stated.

Expressing sorrow over the tragic incident in the Dewanganj area of Sunsari and the uncomfortable situation created in Madhesh Province due to the incident, the religious leaders paid tribute to those who lost their lives in Sunsari, Siraha and other districts of Madhesh Province and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.