Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangalore (Fides Service) - The civil authorities in the Indian state of Karnataka have expressed profound appreciation for Christian commitment in the field of education. At a reception organised on the occasion of a plenary assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India in Banglalore Karnataka first minister Trilok Nath Chaurvedi said: “I am well aware of the contribution offered by Christian schools and institutions in various fields in the life of society in Karnataka and all India. Proof of this is also the fact that many of these institutions have already celebrated their centenary. Education is a powerful tool: it opens minds and broadens horizons. Furthermore it is of the utmost importance for building a national identity”.
Speaking about relations between religion and state Karnataka Justice Minister Cyriac Joseph said that to support a secular state does not mean to want to eliminate God or promote state atheism: instead it is the path to separate public life from the private experience of faith while respecting the dignity and freedom of all the different religious communities in India. A secular state is supported by the Catholic Church but opposed by the Hindu extremists who want a nationalist, mono-religious state
During their assembly the Bishops confirmed another two year mandate for Cardinal Telesphore Toppo archbishop of Ranchi as president of the Bishops’ Conference. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 15/2/2006 righe 25 parole 257)
