ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, SEP 11: Former Chief Minister and President of the Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), Nabam Tuki, has called for respecting tribal food habits and culture.Tuki expressed concern about religious leaders attempting to influence cultural practices, particularly those related to food in the state.
Speaking to the media on a recent press statement by some religious leader advocating for the declaration of the cow as "mother”,  Tuki said that in his long political career, he has never encountered such an attempt. He emphasized the diversity of India's cultural and traditional practices, stressing that no one should impose their beliefs on what others should or should not eat.
Tuki welcomed the upcoming visit of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand to Arunachal Pradesh but cautioned that religious leaders must not interfere with the state's tribal customs. "We welcome any religious leader to our state, but they should not dictate or interfere in our tribal culture and food habits," he said.
Responding to a press statement by representatives of the seer, Tuki reiterated that the tribal community is not against any religion. However, he stressed that the people of Arunachal Pradesh, who live in harmony with nature, are predominantly non-vegetarian, and consuming non-vegetarian food is a vital part of their culture and tradition.
Tuki further remarked that while different regions in India have distinct beliefs, customs, and traditions, imposing a single set of rules across the country is neither feasible nor respectful. "We respect their culture, and in return, they should respect ours," he added.
Jagadguru Shankaracharya is scheduled to visit Itanagar on September 27 to preside over a "Gau Mahasabha" (Cow Assembly), during which a cow flag will be established. Tuki’s remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining cultural harmony in the face of differing religious perspectives.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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