Meghalaya religious places to remain closed till July end

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Representatives of several faith communities have decided to continue with the closure of all religious places after seeing the sudden surge of COVID-19 cases in the State. The decision was arrived at by the leaders of the 'Shillong Khasi Church Leaders' Forum' held at the Bianchi Hall of the Catholic Church. Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the Forum underscoerscored the importance of the religious institutions to aid the government during this pandemic time.

The statement reads, "In combating the coronavirus and to stop its dreaded spread in the community, this meet sends a special appeal to all citizens to follow and strictly adhere to the protocols laid out by the Government; as well as to be personally responsible in good practices of health, hygiene and respect of one another.

"The meeting puts on record its sincere appreciation and gratitude to the State Government, the frontline warriors, the traditional heads and leaders in both rural and trban areas, the groups and individuals and countless number of volunteers engaged in various ways to combat this pandemic.

"With regards to the current issue of racial discriminations, abuses and communal exclusions prevalent in our society, our country and the world, the religious leaders condemn such attitude and incidents, and appeal to the public at large to avoid entertaining such attitudes and actions against one another.

"This meet also unanimously agreed that a new body be formed comprising leaders of different faiths for the purpose of promoting peace and harmony in the State; and that this new body would take an active role in engaging with the authorities, to work together on issues that concern the public and citizens of the State."

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