By Denzil Fernandes
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore
Bangalore, Aug 28 : A delegation led by the Chairman of International Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations’ (IFKCA), Ronald Colaco, met the Karnataka’s present Chief Minister, JagadishShettar on Friday last to congratulate him on his elevation as the Chief Minister of the State by presenting a floral bouquet.
The delegation comprised of Fr. Peter Brank, Director Karnataka Regional Organisation for Social Services (KROSS), Fr. Mari Joseph, Secretary, (Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishop’s Council Youth Commission (KRCBC YCom), Antony Mendonca KAS, VasanthaGudi, BasannaShettar and Manjunath. Fr. Peter Brank also presented a floral bouquet on behalf of KROSS.
During the discussion, Ronald Colaco brought out the pending subject of forming the Christian Development Board (CDB) similar to that of Minority Development Board, Banjara Board or SC/ST Board, instead of the present Christian Development Council (CDC), citing various disadvantages of the CDC, being a toothless body. During the discussion, Ronald Colaco emphasized the apathy of CDC who are hard pressed to get any kind of office space to function, secretarial support, TA & DA allowances for the members from various taluks and districts to attend meetings, etc.
He also urged the CM to enhance the allocation of funds from Rs.50 to Rs.100 crores as promised by the earlier two chief ministers when they were in office. Colaco also presented a memorandum in this regard explaining about the Christian population and various denominations spread out in various taluks and districts of the State, their past and present services in the field of education, healthcare and social sectors which have been instrumental in the overall development of the State’s progress and economy, in spite of being a minority.
Colaco also urged to appoint a Chairman for the proposed Board from among the CDC members giving due consideration for the size of the denomination (region wise) and the various institutions held and managed by the community, in order to be fair and just while according proper representation.
The Chief Minister responded positively stating that he would study the matter and take appropriate action within a short period.
Fr. Mari Joseph presented a letter from Rt Henry D’souza, Bishop of Bellary, inviting the CM to attend and address the concluding ceremony of the Karnataka Regional Youth Convention – Yuvajanotsava 2012, scheduled on 30th Sept., 2012, at Belthangady where nearly 5000 youth from all over the State are expected to attend for which the CM responded positively.