Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) - "It is a step forward for the protection of minorities in India": With these words Bishop Peter Machado, Bishop of Belgaum in Karnataka state, comments to Fides about the "Communal Violence Bill", a measure authorizing the government to intervene in the different states of the Federation - regardless of the action and the willingness of national governments - in cases of intercommunity violence or against specific ethnic and religious groups. The measure, much expected from the Christian minorities, has had the "green light" from the "National Advisory Council, led by Sonia Gandhi, of the Congress Party, in power in the country, and expects only the ratification of the Parliament, where the coalition Government has a majority.
Bishop Machado told Fides: "With this legislation instrument we will have a specific letter of the law to appeal to in cases of anti-Christian violence. There are already several Commissions in India for human rights and minorities, but so far their statements and verbal appeals have not served to stop violence. Today we expect that this law is approved and then - most importantly –applied. "
Bishop Machado refers in particular to the situations of the states of Karnataka and Orissa: "In cases of widespread anti-Christian violence, which occurred in the two states in 2008, for example, the attitude of the local government was that of indifference. Violence was denied or minimized, but thanks to reports by Christian organizations the truth was established. We hope that this law prevents such dynamics and serves to improve the protection of religious minorities in India. "
Speaking to Fides, Fr. Charles Irudayam, Secretary of the Commission on “Justice and Peace " of the Indian Bishops remarks: “It is necessary that there is the political will of the federal government to stop violence and protect the rights of minorities. This law is a step in that direction. We hope others will follow soon. " (PA) (Agenzia Fides 24/05/2011)
