Media Release
Udupi, Jul 3: On the occasion of the feast of St Thomas, the Apostle of India, celebrated as "Indian Christian Day," representatives of the Orthodox Syrian Christian Community in Udupi District, Karnataka, submitted a memorandum to the president and the prime minister of India on Monday through the additional district collector of Udupi District, Veena B N, KAS, urging immediate action to address the escalating violence in Manipur and the failure of the state government to maintain peace.
The memorandum highlights the alarming surge in violent incidents in Manipur over the last two months, including armed clashes, acts of terrorism, extortion, targeted killings, destruction of religious places especially Christian churches and the displacement of over 50,000 people.
It further emphasises the severe impact of this violence on the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the state, with more than 200-300 religious centers being vandalised.
Citing Article 355 of the Indian Constitution, which empowers the Union to protect states against internal disturbances and ensure the proper functioning of state governments, the memorandum appeals to the president and the prime minister to exercise their constitutional authority.
It emphasizes the need for the central government to deploy additional security forces, establish a Peacekeeping Commission, and dissolve the state government due to its failure to maintain peace and protect citizens' rights.
The memorandum also emphasises the importance of rebuilding peace and trust among different communities in Manipur through dialogue, inter-community understanding, and initiatives that promote harmony and inclusivity.
Financial assistance to rebuild the damaged infrastructure is also requested to aid the recovery of the affected people.
The Orthodox Syrian Christian Community expresses hope and appeals that the president and prime minister will take prompt action to address the violence and uphold principles of justice and equality.
The memorandum was submitted by clergy representatives, including Fr David Crasta, Fr Abraham Kuriakose, Fr Noel Lewis, and Fr Antony Mervin Dsilva, along with lay leaders of the community, namely Milton Olivera, Moses Rodrigues, and Roshni Olivera.