Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangalore (Agenzia Fides) – There is anxiety related to threats to social and religious harmony; request for the protection of the rule of law and religious freedom, in accordance with the Constitution: is what 140 Indian Bishops of the Latin rite who have just concluded their annual meeting in Bangalore (February 3 to 9) ask for. In a statement released at the end of the assembly and sent to Fides, the "serious incidents" such as churches burnt in Delhi, the attacks on priests and lay people, the ceremonies of "mass reconversion" from Christianity to Hinduism, organized by radical Hindu groups are recalled.
The note, signed by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, re-elected President of the Conference of Indian Bishops of the Latin rite, also deplores the "shocking statements made by civilian leaders, who challenge the freedom of conscience guaranteed by the Constitution of India under Article 25".
The Bishops express concern about threats to the education system, "symptom of a planned program that aims to reduce Christians to second class citizens in our country, where the Christian community has offered immense contributions to education, health and social services".
This is why "the right to equality before the law and equal opportunities guaranteed by the Constitution of India, which denies any discrimination" are mentioned, asking to apply the constitutional guarantees to the Christian community. "The recurring assaults and vandalism against Christian targets in different parts of the country and the failure to prosecute the perpetrators, have worsened the climate of impunity", notes the statement, defining "the silence of politicians and their inability to protect the Christian community really disconcerting".
The Bishops’ text sent to Fides concludes with a strong appeal to the government to "protect its citizens, applying and protecting the rule of law and to stop violence, in order to ensure peace and harmony". (PA) (Agenzia Fides 09/02/2015)
