Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Apr 4: “It is sad to note that political parties have neglected Christians in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Though there are 35 lac Christians in the state who have made good contribution, not even one has been given a ticket to contest elections. At least they should have considered giving ticket in Mangaluru, Karwar, Bengaluru or Bidar. Congress, JD(S) and BJP in the state have neglected Christians,” said Harry D'Souza, president, Karnataka Christian Social Welfare Association (KCSWA) on Thursday, April 4.

Addressing media at Udupi press club, he said, “Christians will not blindly vote Congress anymore. Congress and JD(S) have been assuring the formation of board for Christians. It was announced in the budget, but so far no action has been taken. Since Christians have not been given any opportunity to contest in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, they must be considered at least for Rajya Sabha, Legislative Council and for chairmen’s posts for boards in near future so that we are done justice.

"KCSWA had demanded the exemption of Christian staff from election duty on April 18 as it is Maundy Thursday. Sanjeev Kumar, state chief election commissioner, had considered our request and had forwarded it to the Chief Election Commissioner of India. The state chief election commissioner wrote to all district commissioners and district electoral officers to take appropriate measures. In most districts, appropriate measures conducive to Christian community’s request have been taken,” he said.

The association had also requested changing the location of polling booths located near churches.

Mary D’Souza, president-elect, Catholic Sabha, Valerian Fernandes, former president, Catholic Sabha Udupi and Maxim D’Souza, general secretary were present.