Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Aug 8: AICU state president Alwyn D’Souza Panir has strongly condemned the brutal, fabricated, and premeditated attack that took place on Wednesday, August 6, at the Gangadhar Mission Centre under the jurisdiction of the Jaleshwar diocese in Odisha.

According to Alwyn D’Souza, the heinous act was carried out by more than 70 Bajrang Dal activists, who allegedly assaulted two Catholic priests, two Christian nuns, and one of their associates. He said the victims had gone to attend a memorial prayer for bereaved families when they were subjected to violence on the basis of false allegations of forced religious conversion.

“Such actions violate the religious freedom guaranteed by our Constitution and insult the values of humanity, tolerance, and justice. Violent and hate-driven attacks like this pose a threat to the nation’s religious harmony and security. As citizens who believe in the principles of love, we condemn this attack and stand in support of the power of justice,” Alwyn stated.

He further urged the Odisha state government and the local administration to immediately investigate the incident, bring the truth to light, arrest the culprits, impose strict punishment, and take strong measures to ensure the safety and dignity of religious workers.

Offering his condolences and heartfelt prayers to all the religious workers injured in the attack, their families, and the Balasore diocese, Alwyn said, “May they be granted peace, courage, and victory of justice. We remain committed to building a religion-based peaceful society.”