Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vasai (Agenzia Fides) - "In India, there are generally good relations between Muslims and Christians. We are two large minority communities. There are 130 million Muslims and 25 million Christians, in comparison to the Hindu majority. Today, extremist groups are trying to feed tensions and create chaos, amplifying the news coming from abroad, such as the news of the burning of the Koran," says Archbishop Felix Machado, head of the Diocese of Vasai and former Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, thus a great expert on interreligious relations in the Indian context.
"In the general framework of India, interreligious dialogue initiatives are always attended by Christian and Muslim leaders, alongside other religious leaders. In many cities of India, Christian schools are attended by Muslim students. There is no reason for tension," he says.
Kashmir is another story: "It is a powder keg. The episode of the burning of the Koran is grafted into a context of internal and external political tensions, given the strained relations with Pakistan. The presence of militant terrorist groups like Laskar-e-Taiba reeks havoc in other parts of India," Archbishop Machado tells Fides.
There are attempts to undermine the basis of harmony: "The Diocese of Vasai has a special relationship with Kashmir: many young seminarians and priests from Vasai are missionaries in that area. They say that the Catholic community there is much loved and appreciated for its services towards the population. In fact, in the clashes between Hindus and Muslims, between military and armed movements in New Delhi, Christians are true peacemakers and agents of reconciliation."
The episodes in Kashmir, stresses the Archbishop, "have troubled a moment of great interreligious harmony in India, as it is a time period with three important feasts for the three religions: Friday, September 10, is Id al-Fitr, the end of Ramadan for Muslims; Saturday 11 is the feast of Ganesh, the Hindu deity; and Sunday, September 12, is the feast of the Holy Name of Mary, for Catholics, especially in Mumbai, there are great celebrations and interreligious group pilgrimages.”
Bishop Machado concludes: "The people of India want peace and reconciliation and are tired of violence. The Catholic Church is offering words of hope and peace. This is what makes her a credible and appreciated institution." (PA) (Agenzia Fides 14/09/2010)
