People have freedom to peacefully follow any faith in India: Nagaland Governor PB Acharya

KOHIMA: Nagaland Governor PB Acharya today said that people should uphold their culture, tradition and language in order to preserve their identity.

"India is a secular, pluralistic and democratic country and, therefore, everyone has the freedom to peacefully follow and practise any religion," the governor told a gathering of Nepalese community for celebrating the silver jubilee of the North East Region Service Nepali Association (NERSNA) here.

He said that every tribe has the freedom to speak its own language and the respective tribal organisations should work towards protecting and preserving their language, culture and tradition.

Acknowledging the services of the Nepalese community as part of the army and para-military forces, Acharya, who is also the governor of Assam, said "The Nepalese are known for their brave deeds and I salute their bravery."

State Minister for Social Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiyanilie Peseyie, appealed to the Nepalese community to extend support to the government for maintaining peace and unity for the development and progress of Nagaland.