Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS/JD)

Bengaluru, Jul 2: Christian priests and leaders of Christian organizations met with CM Siddaramaiah on behalf of the Indian Christian Unity Forum to discuss various issues and extend their congratulations to him.

Addressing the Christian leaders, CM Siddaramaiah stated, "It has been decided to repeal the anti-conversion law implemented by the previous BJP government. The constitutional rights of all communities will be safeguarded. We will investigate all false cases filed against Christian priests related to conversion activities. Furthermore, increased funds will be allocated for the development of the Christian community in the upcoming budget."

The Christian leaders requested the CM to provide a suitable grant to the Christian Development Corporation and sought protection for legally built churches, religious centers, and Christian organizations. They also urged the CM to take strict action against those who attack Christian priests and organizations. Additionally, they appealed for a grant of Rs 1000 crore in the next budget for the development of the Christian community, and they emphasized the need for representation of all communities as presidents of the Karnataka Minority Development Corporation on a rotational basis.

Furthermore, the Christian leaders advocated for a five percent reservation for Christians under the 3B category, appropriate positions for Christians in government corporations and boards, the appointment of Christians as MLCs, financial grants and land allocation for building Christian centers in district centers and Bengaluru.

Present at the meeting were CM's political secretary Govindaraju, Anthony Vikram, and Dr Manohar Chandra Prasad from the Indian Christian Unity Forum, along with priest Fr Mahimadas, lawyers John Peter, Manoranjini, Venkatesh, and Joseph Mahadev.