Srinagar: Asserting that India’s civilisational identity is rooted in inclusivity and respect for all faiths, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said the country has never imposed any religion on others nor asked anyone to renounce their faith. Instead, he said, India has always welcomed people of different beliefs with the message: “Come with your faith and live with us.”

Addressing the Interfaith Dialogue at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) here, the Lieutenant Governor, said the gathering reflected India’s timeless traditions of wisdom, dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

He said India, since ancient times, has nurtured an environment where diverse philosophies, cultures, religions and schools of thought have flourished together with mutual respect and dignity.

“This is the land where humanity was taught how to live together with compassion, dignity and mutual respect,” Sinha said, adding that India’s civilisation has always regarded diversity as its greatest strength rather than a source of conflict.

Explaining the concept of Dharma, the Lieutenant Governor said it transcends religion and sect, representing righteousness, duty and values that sustain society. Quoting the Rig Veda, he said the ancient scriptures recognised one Supreme Being who belongs........

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