Tags:
Journalism of Courage
PUNE, Jan 7: The Indian Christian Movement has submitted a memorandum to district collector Vijay Kumar Gautam, expressing shock at the persecution and atrocities against Christians in Gujarat. They have requested him to communicate the same to the President, the Prime Minister, the Home Minister and the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Keshubhai Patel.
The dharna staged today was attended by about 5,000 people from all walks of life and about 200 went on a day-long fast in protest. 8220;The violence has continued unabated since December 25, 1998, in spite of words of assurance from the Central and State government, and it is spreading insecurity amongst Christians,8221; says the memorandum signed by John Rock Paul, chairman, ICM, and corporator of Yerwada, and members Ashok Angre, Manoj Bhore, Suresh Jadhav, George Swamy, Alwyn Devdas and D Munte.
8220;The burning of churches, destruction of properties belonging to Christian institutions, the physical violence against members of the Christian communities are acts that deserve the severest condemnation,8221; says the memorandum emphasising that fear and helplessness had gripped the Christian communities in these areas and there was a deep sense of disappointment at what appeared to be a lack of will of the local authorities to protect them.
The memorandum adds that it has been led to understand that 8220;communal organisations like the VHP, the RSS, the Bajrang Dal and the Hindu Jagran Manch8221; were spearheading the orgy of violence and spreading fear among the Dalits and adivasis of the Dhangs. 8220;There seems to be a carefully worked out plan of violence and intimidation against Christian missionaries, it is a shame after 50 years of freedom,8221; the memorandum adds.
