Media Release
Udupi, Dec 27: The Udupi diocese PRO Fr Denis D’Sa has expressed deep concern and anguish over attacks on members of the Christian community reported across the country during the Christmas season, stating that such incidents amount to a direct assault on religious freedom guaranteed by the Constitution of India.
In a media statement, he said that Christmas, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ who preached peace, love and forgiveness to the world, has this year instead created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety among the Christian community in India. Incidents of attacks by extremist elements during Christmas celebrations have been reported from several states, including Karnataka, Kerala, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Odisha, casting a dark shadow over the festive spirit.
The statement noted that these incidents have deeply hurt Christians who live in India with faith in constitutional values and believe the country to be a peaceful home for people of all religions. The diocese pointed out the irony that while the prime minister participated in Christmas prayers at a church in Delhi, extremist elements in various parts of the country attacked Christmas celebrations. While appreciating the prime minister’s gesture towards the festival, the diocese expressed concern that individuals claiming to be his followers were involved in acts that undermine constitutional values.
Fr Denis D’Sa emphasized that the Indian Constitution provides equal freedom to every religion to practice and profess its faith, and any attempt to threaten or violate this freedom is unacceptable. It stated that the violence and harassment faced by Christians during this year’s Christmas celebrations felt like a “painful reward” for the community and clearly highlighted that minorities still do not feel fully secure under the country’s governance.
Calling upon the authorities to act decisively, he urged the governments of all states to give top priority to the protection of minority communities. It demanded strict legal action against extremist forces involved in such unconstitutional acts and called on the central leadership to issue appropriate directions to all states to ensure adequate security for the Christian community and all institutions run by them.