Holding of Digital India Day on Good Friday opposed (Lead)

Shillong April 12 (IANS) The Centre s decision to observe Digital India Day on April 14 the day Good Friday will be observed was on Wednesday opposed in various quarters in Meghalaya and Nagaland.

Prayers penance and fasting are held on Good Friday to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ 2 000 years ago.

The ruling Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance government has decided not to participate in the programme.

The opposition Hill State People s Democratic Party and National People s Party have also opposed the Centre s move.

Similarly the Nagaland government of which the Bharatiya Janata Party is a part will not join any activity relating to promotion of Digital India programme.

Lok Sabha member Conrad K. Sangma of the National People s Party (NPP) a BJP ally on Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to urge him to defer the Digital India Day programme.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said his government will not participate.

Is it that they selectively identifying these dates to marginalise the minorities with a complete disregard to the constitutional obligation of ensuring personal liberty? the Congress leader asked.

Nagaland Chief Secretary Pankaj Kumar said the state government will not join any activity relating to promotion of digital payment on Good Friday.

It is a part of a mega draw and Digi Dhan planned for April 14 for the promotion of digital payments in 100 cities across India. The list does not include Nagaland Kumar said.

--IANS
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