Media Release
Bangalore, Sep 7 : Leaders of Federation of Konkani Catholic Associations ( FKCA) and Federation of Karnataka Christian Associations met the Hon’ble Home Minister Dr. V.S. Acharya and discussed issues pertaining to minorities.
FKCA expressed concern over the repeated attacks, arson and violence against the Christians, Churches, Orphanages, Schools and other educational institutions in Orissa during the last several days on the pretext of protests over the murder of Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati and his followers even when the highest police officials of Orissa had given public statements regarding the involvement of Maoists or Naxal elements. FKCA. while we strongly condemning the murder of Swami Saraswati and his followers, they said it is no excuse to target the Christian priests, nuns in Orissa.
FKCA also demanded withdrawal of the notices issued by Education Department to all Christian Educational Institutions in the state,. They maintained that the managements of all Catholic and Christian Educational Institutions called for a nationwide protest by closing down educational institutions on the 29th of August and hold that peaceful and non-violent protests is a fundamental right of citizens.
One cannot remain silent spectators when our Christians in Orissa are suffering, FKCA strongly condemn the disturbances caused by some bigoted leaders during the prayer services at Bondel Church in Mangalore, which is in possession of the land for the part 60 years. It is the duty of the government and the civic authorities to give protection to the minority communities instead of allowing anti-social elements to take the law in their own hands on flimsy excuses especially when the “disputed land'' has been in the possession of Bondel Church authorities for well over 60 years.
Christians community is know for peace-loving and law-abiding nature and the contribution of Christians of all denominations in the field of Education, Healthcare and Social Service is too well-known and widely appreciated by all sections of society, irrespective of caste, creed or colour.
FKCA also strongly urged the Government to take all steps to curb anti-social elements or fundamentalist forces by taking timely and preventive action to ensure safety and protection of all citizens.
Charles Gomes, Valerian Fernandes, Anil Rego , Gabriel Vaz, Felix D'zousa, Antony Swamy and Clifford Mascarenhas were present.