Kathmandu : Leaders of various religious communities have called on all Nepali citizens to firmly stand for peace, harmony, religious tolerance, the rule of law, and national unity.
After a discussion at Singha Durbar today led by Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) president Rabi Lamichhane, leaders of the Muslim and Hindu communities issued a joint appeal, calling for the rejection of any kind of violence, hatred, and divisive activities.
They have appealed for becoming aware of various activities that are disturbing centuries-old tolerance and social harmony.
Local administration, security agencies, political parties, religious leaders, civil society, media, and all stakeholders have been requested to actively contribute to restoring peace, security, and social harmony through dialogue, cooperation, and responsible roles.
The joint appeal was signed by Ramchandra Tiwari, General Secretary of World Hindu Federation Nepal, Maulana Mohammad Khalid Siddiqui, President of Jamiat Ulama-e-Nepal, Secretariat member of the Federation Rajuraj Phuyal, and Maulana Nazrul Hasan Falahi, President of Al Salam Society.
“The essence of all religions is human welfare, promoting tolerance, and strengthening social unity and brotherhood. It is our collective responsibility to strengthen social unity by accepting the fact that no religion should discriminate or belittle followers of another religion,” said the joint appeal.
They have requested the government to investigate the facts of the incidents that occurred in Sunsari, Siraha, and other districts of the Madhes Province, take action against anyone involved in illegal activities, provide necessary relief to the victims’ families, offer proper compensation, and arrange free and effective treatment for the injured.
The joint appeal stated, “While various self-interest groups are trying to spread violence in the name of religion, we urge all citizens to stay calm and not get involved in actions that are provocative, hateful, or that disturb social harmony.”
Stating that Nepal is a multi-religious, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-cultural nation, they said that religious tolerance, social harmony, mutual respect, national unity, and identity are the foundation of national unity. The appeal stated, “We are clear that no national unity or identity should be harmed because of any incident or dispute.”
Expressing sorrow over the tragic incident that happened a few days ago in the Dewanganj area of Sunsari and the uncomfortable situation it caused in the Madhesh Province, they offered condolences to those who died in incidents in Sunsari, Siraha, and other districts of Madhesh Province and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.
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