ASIA/INDIA Defending human rights and freedom of conscience: India’s Christians stage 7 April Delhi peaceful protest demonstration

Thursday, 6 April 2006

New Delhi (Fides Service) - To call for respect for human rights, religious freedom in particular, and government protection for the life and activity of the different religious communities in India in keeping with the pluralistic nature of India’s Constitution, Christians of various denominations have organised a demonstration on 7 April in the capital New Delhi at which bishops, pastors, MPs and academics are expected to be present.
This peaceful protest is organised by the Global Council of Indian Christians whose members are Christians of different denominations. India’s Christians want the government to stop acts of violence against Christians, Christian communities and institutions.
In a statement in which they mention recent episodes of anti-Christian intolerance in the States of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Orissa, the organisers express deep concern: “We must raise our voices against those who violate our fundamental right to practice our religion”.
Moreover the Bishops of India have several times expressed concern for legislation limiting freedom of conscience and religion adopted in the Indian States of Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. Anti Christian violence is promoted by Hindu nationalist extremists. (Agenzia Fides 6/4/2006 righe 25 parole 255)


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