Reconverted Christians Asked to Attack Own Churches

Christians Forcibly Converted To Hinduism And Asked to Attack Their Own Churches

Attacks On Christians Continue In Orissa.

PRESS STATEMENT

New Delhi, September 2, 2008:

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) is shocked to learn that the Christians in Orissa who have been already victims of violence are now being forced to become Hindus and attack their own Churches in which they have been worshiping so long. This is totally inhuman and a gross violation of human rights.

According to the latest reports from Bhubaneshwar, although Rapid Action Force is deployed at several places in Kandhamal with specific instructions ‘to shoot at sight’ the unruly mob continue to attack Churches and ransack the Christian institutions at will. On Monday, September 1, it is reported that 10 prayer halls were destroyed in Kundra village of Jayapur District. In Tikabali Block, 5 villages were attacked and property looted. Similarly, a Church, a Convent and 2 hostels were destroyed in Mondasore under Raikia Block.

We are extremely distressed to note that despite the assurances given by Shri Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Orissa to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh that the violence in Kandhamal would be brought under control, we find that there has not been much improvement in the riot hit areas of Kandhamal. Even though security forces have been deployed in Kandhamal, the fundamentalists continue to attack Christians and their institutions freely.

We earnestly, appeal to the Chief Minister of Orissa to act firmly against those who are taking law into their hands and safeguard Christians, their houses and institutions which are being constantly attacked by the fundamentalist groups. We also request the State Administration to be vigilant at the forced re-conversion issue since it is a gross violation of their Constitutional right to live in the country without fear.

Issued by

Rev Dr Babu Joseph
Spokesperson, CBCI

Orissa Bishop Appeals for Peace

Bishop Of Balasore Appeal For Peace and Harmony In Orissa

The atrocities being committed against the Christian Community in Orissa and in particular in Kandhamal District from the wake of the killing Swami Laxanananda Saraswati along with four others on 23rd August 2008 near Tumudibandh. We, the Catholic Community in Orissa, deeply condemn this barbarous incident. At this juncture, I earnestly appeal to all of you to maintain peace and harmony.

Following is the Circular from Balasore Diocese:

Circular No. 5/2008

DIOCESE OF BALASORE

BISHOP’S HOUSE
BALASORE-756 001

1st September 2008

My dear Fathers, Brothers, Sisters and Lay Faithful,

You might be well aware of the atrocities being committed against the Christian Community in Orissa and in particular in Kandhamal District in the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar from the wake of the killing Swami Laxanananda Saraswati along with four others on 23rd August 2008 near Tumudibandh. We, the Catholic Community in Orissa, deeply condemn this barbarous incident and deeply sympathize with the near and dear ones of the deceased. At this juncture, I earnestly appeal to all of you to maintain peace and harmony. I am sending herewith a circular, which gives a number of relevant informations, action plan and what had been being done to stop the violence. As you can see, this attack by the Fundamentalists caused much damage, strain and loss to the church in Orissa. I also give you herby some of the facts and figures of the attacks.

Introduction

Violence re-erupted within the Indian state of Orissa once again. The attacks performed by Hindu extremist groups are just one link in a long chain of events that have continued to strain Hindu-Christian relations within the State. This time the attacks were triggered by the killing of a prominent Hindu leader Swami Laxanananda Saraswati along with four other people in his Jalaspeta Ashram near Tumudibandh, Kandhamal District, Orissa, on Saturday 23rd August 2008. In retaliation for the Swamiji's death, the extremist wing of the VHP has engaged in a series of attacks against Christians all through out the Sate of Orissa.

Some of the major developments or incidents Since 23rd August at wake of the killing the Swamiji and his four associates.

- On 24th August two sisters of Precious Blood Congregation at Kothaguda who were on their way to Berhampur were stopped near G. Udayagiri, pulled out from the vehicle. The Vehicle was then set on fire and the driver was severely beaten up.

- Almost at the same time a vehicle carrying HM sisters near Ainthapally in Sambalpur, a prayer chapel at Tentuliapadar in Sundargarh was also burned and destroyed. With these incidents, the stories of violence, abuse and attacks continue with several churches, church institutions, priests, Nuns, Christian people and their houses being attacked, abused, ransacked, and torched.

- As the impact of the news started getting visible across the State, the Government got into action by announcing prohibitory orders (144 Section) in Kandhamal District. This was also a preparatory action by the State Government ahead of the 12-hour bandh called by the VHP and other affiliates of the Sangh Parivar on 25th August to protest the killing.

- On Sunday morning 24th August 2008, prayers in many churches were disrupted with very few participants attending the Mass in Kandhamal District fearing attacks.

- From the same day attacks in Kandhamal District intensified of Janvikas Office like many other Offices which were burnt to ashes.

- The mob continued their assaults at Divya Jyoti Pastoral Centre by gutting, burning and looting the same at about 6 p.m. The same group entered the Balliguda presbytery, convent and hostel damaging the properties, Roman Catholic Church at Kanjamedi.

- On 25th August 2008 as the Bandh lead to many protests, Rastha Rokos, tyre burning etc, the following incidents of violence shook the whole state and the Christian Community. Phulbani Church and the presbytery were vandalized and ransacked, Srasanda MC Brother's residence was attacked and some of the patients who came there to get treatment were beaten up. On the same day at 10.30 a.m the houses of Christian families in Christiansahi in Balliguda were destroyed and ransacked, two boys studying in the church run hostel were caught in Balliguda and their heads were tonsured.

- The Pastoral Centre, Kanjamendi, was burnt and ransacked on 24th. Fr. Thomas Chellan, the Director of the Pastoral Centre and Sr. Meena, H.M., the Administrator of the Centre escaped from the centre and took shelter in a nearby family. On 25th, mob having the information about it, forcefully entered the house dragging both of them outside. They were beaten up badly and taken to the Police Fundi in that area. Fr. Thomas Chellan is still in serious condition.

- On 25th late night, Sankrakhol Parish church and presbytery were set fire and ransacked. Fr. Bernard Digal, the Treasurer of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar who had gone to visit Fr. Alexandar Chandi was held up at Sankrakhol parish when the mob attacked the church. His Jeep was set fire. While narrating the incident Fr. Bernard said that when the mob entered the church premises, they left to the forest and hid themselves. He walked around 10 kms to reach one of his relations house. On the way Fr. Bernard Digal was severely beaten up and wounded and is presently undergoing medical treatment.

- On 25th August late night the Convent of St. Joseph's at Sankrakhole was attacked and ransacked. The Sisters also left to the forest and have saved their life.

- The mob made some attempts to enter the premises of the Catholic Church, Bhubaneswar and the Archbishop's House. The Institutions in Bhubaneswar St. Arnold's School, NISWASS, Loyola School, XIM, have suffered some damages.

- A mob entered the premises of Carmel School at Bhadrak and broke some window glasses of the school building, the glasses of the School Buses and jeep parked in the compound.

- A group of people broke the glasses around the statue of Mother Mary in the premises of Balasore Social Service Society and some window glasses of the building on 25th August at Balasore.

- A large violent mob with deadly weapons and explosive liquids attacked the Muniguda Mission and set fire to the Church, Convent, Boys Hostel and the Centre of Life Skill Education for Adolescent illiterate Girls.

- On 26th, a Baptist Church was looted and houses of the Christian families were set on fire, another three Catholic churches of were attacked in the District. On the same day, 45 houses belonging to Christian families in Patapaga under Raikia Police Station were burnt to ashes while World Vision Office in Bhawanipatna was attacked and the office vehicle was set fire. Pastor Sikandar Singh from Bhawanipatna was also beaten up; his house and vehicle were burnt. Similarly a Lutheran church in Gosaninuagaon of Berhampur was also attacked.

- These are a few incidents to know the intensity and depth of attacks on the Christians in Khanadamal and adjacent Districts in Orissa. There are many more to innumerate in different Dioceses and Districts of Orissa. I am giving you some statistics on the attacks.

1. Number of Deaths in Kandhamal District : 26
2. Number of churches destroyed : 41
3. Number of Houses destroyed : 4014
4. Number of Convents destroyed : 5
5. Number of Hostels destroyed : 6
6. Number of Institutions destroyed : 7

What has been done in Orissa till now?

• The All India Christian Council, Orissa, led by Rev. P.R. Parichha and other 6 members met His Excellency Muralidhar Chandrakant Bhandare, Hon'ble Governor of Orissa, at Raj Bhavan, Bhubaneswar and explained the distressful situation of the christians in the State of Orissa and specifically in Kandhamal District. They highlighted the State's failure to safeguard life and property of the christians in Orissa and demanded a CBI inquiry into the killing of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati.
• A coordination team comprising of NGOs and the church personnel in Orissa, has been formed to coordinate the works of relief and rehabilitation during the coming months and disseminate the information to all concerned citizens.
• All educational institutions were closed for a day during the last week of August in the five Dioceses in Orissa, condemning the violence in the wake of the killing of the Swamiji, citing the insecurity of the minority community and seeking protection from the State and Central Government.
• Steps are being taken to meet the Chief Minster of Orissa, Mr. Naveen Patnayak, to brief the grieving situation of the christians in Khandamal and other parts of Orissa and on the relaxed law and order situation of Orissa.
• Most Rev. Raphael Cheenath, Archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubanewsar and myself are in constant touch with various civil and ecclesiastical authorities to bring about an amicable solution to the burning problem.

What is being done outside the State of Orissa?

- A memorandum was submitted the Hounarable Madam President of India Mrs. Pratibha Patil, requesting her to intervene to impress on the Central Government to rush adequate Union forces, including contingents of the Armed Forces if required, to restore law and order in the State of Orissa particularly in the Kandhamal District.

- A group of Christian leaders led by Most Rev. Raphael Cheenath, Most Rev. Vincent Concessao and a few other dignitaries had met the Prime Minister Sri Manmohan Singh on Thursday 28th August, and appraised him about the critical situation in Orissa. They demanded the following to the Prime Minister that:

1. The atrocities should be stopped immediately.

2. An Independent CBI enquiry should be made.

3. The Central Para-Military Forces/ Army be deployed in adequate strength at all the affected and sensitive places to prevent any further recurrences as the local police has not been able to control the situation.

4. Immediate relief should reach to the refugees whose houses have been looted, destroyed or burned with all their belongings

5. An adequate compensation should be given to them from the Central Government’s Funds.

The Prime Minister assured the delegation that he will speak to the Hon’ble Chief Minister Sri Naveen Patnayak in order to take immediate action. He also assured that funds will be made available for the relief, rehabilitation, renovation and reconstruction of the damaged or destroyed houses and institutions.

- Some 45,000 educational institutions run by Christians across the country were closed on 29th August to protest the continued anti-Christian violence in Orissa.

- Christians all over the country have been praying, fasting, conducting prayer vigils, processions on the streets and sending Memoranda to the Government Officials and also to the media, demanding justice.

What has been done in the Diocese of Balasore

An emergency meeting of the Priests and Religious of Balasore, Mayurbanj and Bhdarak civil Districts were called on the 30th August at the Bishop’s House, Balasore. The following are the decisions of the Meeting:

1. Condemning the death of the Swamiji and his four associates, flash news were given in the local Newspapers

2. Bishop Thomas Thiruthalil and some of the Priests representatives met all the District Administrative body individually, such as the S.P., D.I.G., Collector & MLA.

3. Building up of peace committees in the parishes and institutions are to be initiated.

4. Forming of alumni association in all the schools.

5. PTA meetings are to be organized in different schools in collaboration with the Education Commission.

6. To form a delegation of priests, religious and laity to meet the C.M of Orissa.

7. To continue to build the civil society groups and build a base for networking and advocacy.

Expressing our solidarity with the suffering people and united in prayer with them at this painful situation,

Devotedly yours in Christ,

Thomas Thiruthalil, C.M
Bishop of Balasore

Mother Teresa's Successor Appeals for Peace

Sr. Nirmala Joshi: Let Us Put Down the Weapons of Violence; Religion is a Work of Peace

Ahead of the feast of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata, on September 5, the Superior General of the Missionaries of Charity, Sr. Nirmala Joshi MC, appeals through Asianews to all Indians to break the chain of violence taking place in Orissa.

Here is the complete text of Sr Nirmala's appeal:

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Orissa and all over India,

Let us not forget our true identity as the beloved children of God our Father. We are brothers and sisters of one another no matter what our religion, race, culture or language is, whether we are rich or poor. Nothing should separate us.

Above all, let us not use religion to divide us. Essence of all religion is love - love of God and love of one another. Violence on the ground of religion is an abuse of religion.

"Religion is meant to be a work of love. It is not meant to destroy peace and unity. Works of love are works of peace. Let us use religion to become one heart full of love in the heart of God". (Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta).

Dear Brothers and Sisters, in the name of God and in the name of our own humanity, created for greater things, to love and to be loved eternally, and in the name of our country and its noble heritage, and in the name of the poor, the children, and all our suffering brothers and sisters who are victims of this senseless violence and destruction, I make this appeal: let us pray, opening our mind and heart to the light and love of God. Let us put down the weapon of hatred and violence and put on the armor of love. Let us forgive one another and ask forgiveness from one another for the wrong we have done to each other and reach out in love to each other.

Let us pray for the repose of the souls of Swami Laxamananda Saraswati and his four associates and all our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives during this violence. Let us pray for each other and ask our Mother, Blessed Teresa of Calcutta to pray for us so that we may become channels of God's own peace, love and joy to one another and builders of the civilization of love!

God bless you,

Sr. M. Nirmala, M.C.
Superior General

Bengal Christians Take Out Protest Rally

In Bengal, a United Christian Forum Holds a Protest Rally

KRISHNAGAR, West Bengal, SEPT. 02, 2008, 16.30 Hrs (CBCI News): The Nadia District Committee of Bangiya Christiya Parisheba, a united forum of Christians of all denominations, held a protest rally here, against the recent violence in Orissa state where around 12 Christians were allegedly killed and churches and Christian institutions torched by Hindu religious fanatics.

Thousands of students studying in Christian schools in Nadia district, their parents and members of the Christian community joined the rally August 29, holding black flags and placards expressing their protest. All Christian schools remained closed.

Later, Bishop Joseph Soren Gomes of Krishnagar conducted a condolence prayer.

Speakers at the rally condemned the barbaric attacks on the life of innocent Christians, their houses, convents, shops and hostels in Orissa.

They also appealed to the Centre and the state government of Orissa to take necessary measures to prevent loss of lives and properties.

The Parisheba forwarded a memorandum to the Chief Minister and Governor of Orissa to take immediate steps in this regard.

The rally started at Krishnagar Cathedral and ended at St. John's C.M.S. High School ground. There are about 40 Christian missionary schools in the district.

In Karwar, 5000 Catholics Join Silent Protest Rally

5,000 Catholics from the South Indian Diocese of Karwar Take Part in a Silent Protest Rally

Bishop Derek Fernandes Submits a Memorandum

5,000 Catholics led by Bishop Derek Fernandes of Karwar in silent procession.

A protest rally was organized by the Catholics of Karwar on Monday, September 01, 2008 at St. Joseph's school grounds, Kajubag, Karwar. About 5000 Catholics from the parishes in Karwar taluk gathered at the school grounds at 10:30 a.m. and proceeded in silent procession through the main streets of Karwar to the Office premises of the Deputy Commissioner, led by the Most Rev. Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Karwar and the priests and religious of Karwar deanery.

The entire procession was in silence, holding banners and placards with the messages condemning the atrocities on the innocent Christians in Orissa and calling for peace and harmony among people of all religions.

The procession converged into a rally in front of the D.C. office and Bishop Derek Fernandes read out the memorandum endorsed with signatures of more than 3000 Catholics, and then handed over to the Deputy Commissioner, who assured to forward it to the Government for necessary action.

Bishop Derek submitting the memorandum bearing the signature of more than 3000 Catholics.

The following is the text of the Memorandum:

To the Deputy Commissioner, Uttar Kannada, Karwar.

Sir,

You are aware of the ongoing atrocities being perpetrated on the helpless and innocent minority Christian community in Orissa. Certain fundamentalist and communal elements are targeting the Christian community, resorting to vandalism, looting, killing and destroying property.

We condemn the killing of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and his associates. But targeting innocent people as vengeance does not stand to reason. Instead of catching and punishing the wrong doers and criminals, innocent minority Christians are attacked and grievously injured destroying their life, limb and property. In any case violence of any kind cannot be justified for any reason whatsoever.

It is evident that the Government of Orissa and the civil administration has failed to provide the protection to the minority Christian community guaranteed in our constitution. Since the violence and terror are still continuing unabated, it appears that these fundamental and communal elements are operating with the connivance and tacit support of the local administration at the place.

We the Christians of Uttar Kannada district express our solidarity and concern with our victimized Christian brothers and sisters in Orissa and condemn the atrocities perpetrated by the communal and fundamentalist elements. Therefore we request your good self to kindly convey our fears and anxieties to the Government of Karnataka to take up the same with the Government of Orissa for suitable remedial action and immediate relief to our oppressed and unfortunate Christian brothers and sisters in Orissa.

Thanking you,

Bishop Derek Fernandes

and the Christians of Uttar Kannada district.

The protest rally was well covered by the press and television media persons.

Bishop Derek Responding to questions from media persons

To their question about the directive of the Karnataka Education Minister to issue notices to the school managements for closing down the Catholic schools on Friday, 29th August, the Bishop replied, "That itself is another form of atrocity on the Christian minority. Instead of sympathizing with us and condemning the atrocities committed on the innocent minority Christians, our very right of protest is being questioned. We are less than 2 per cent minority in our Country, and if we do not sympathize with our suffering brothers and sisters and protest, who else will do it?"

Similar protest rallies and processions were held in Kumta, Honavar, Sirsi, Yellapur, Haliyal and Joida talukas in the diocese by the Catholics of the respective deaneries under the leadership of the clergy-religious and the Catholic Association and memoranda were submitted to the respective tahsildars.

Fr. Thomas Misquith
Karwar

Memorandum to the Governor of Orissa

At the culmination of the Protest and Prayer Rally of the Christians of Delhi and National Capital Region at Orissa Bhawan on 29th August 20008, and the closure of all Christian institutions in the country in solidarity with their brothers and sisters in the State

To
His Excellency Murlidhar Chandrakant Bhandare
The Governor of Orissa
Bhubaneswar

Sir,

In deep anguish and pain, We, the Christian Community of the Delhi and National Capital Region, submit this memorandum to you, and not to the Chief Minister of Orissa, because we believe that by not stopping the Ethnic Cleansing of Christians in Orissa in the last six days, he has abdicated his Constitutional duties to the Sangh Parivar and thereby has forfeited his right to be in Government.

We therefore approach you, as the Constitutional Head of the State of Orissa and protector of the rights of the State’s citizens irrespective of their religion, caste or ethnic status, to restore sanity, peace, and the Rule of Law in the State, protect the life, liberty and property of the Christian community, specially in Kandhamal and other affected districts.

As you know, in the last six days in the second wave of mass violence since Christmas 2007, almost a score of Christian men and women have been brutally killed in acts reminiscent of the massacre of the Sikhs in Delhi and other places in 1984, and of the Muslims in 1993 in Mumbai and 2002 in Gujarat.

Nuns have been raped, pastors, Priests, religious workers injured in their hundreds. Over forty churches have been destroyed, many for the second time, apart from once again hundreds upon hundreds of houses burnt in towns, villages and forest settlements. Christians have been chased and hunted like animals. In case your intelligence apparatus has not briefed you properly, we attach herewith an incomplete list of the murder and mayhem in Orissa, as we gather data from the victims and the kin of the dead.

There is no element of doubt as to who is the perpetrator of the violence. It is the Sangh Parivar, and its component elements, the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, the Bajrang Dal and the Vanvasi Kalyan Sangh, and especially groups connected with the ashrams of the late VHP Vice president Lakshmanananda Saraswati. VHP leaders, including Mr. Praveen Togadia have openly called for ethnic cleansing, and others have vowed not to rest from their bloody labours till they have rid Orissa of Christians.

The police have looked on for six months. They have often abetted in the violence and never intervened to save the hapless Christians and their institutions. Instead, the official machinery and the top policemen and bureaucrats have parroted the lies of the Hindutva Sangh Parivar and its narrow definition of religious nationalism to pin the blame of the acrimony on the Christians.

If the Chief minister and his government have forfeited their right to govern, the Chief Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director General of Police have lost their right to be in active service. It is a shame they continue to be in office, and speaks volumes for the conspiracy between the Government, the coalition partner Bharatiya Janata party and the State official apparatus against the Christian community and the Christian Faith.

The state apparatus has failed thrice – to protect the Christians in December 2007, to protect the late VHP leader and unravel the mystery of his murder, and then to once again protect the Christians facing annihilation in August 2008.

We therefore call upon you as Governor to:

1. Write to the President of India to impose President’s Rule in Orissa, and that you take over the reigns of Governance so that peace is restored in Kandhamal and other districts.

2. Immediately suspend not constables and junior officials, but the Chief Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director General of Police for gross dereliction of duty, and for joining the conspiracy to wipe out Christians in Orissa.

3. Hand over the Kandhamal district in particular to the Indian Army, which alone can restore the confidence of the victims.

4. Trace the many people reported abducted, some feared dead or injured, in the last six days

5. Bring back the tens of thousands of Christians Tribals and Dalit villagers hiding for their lives in the forests, most of them without food and adequate drinking water

6. Hand over all investigations relating to the circumstances and course of violence to the Central Bureau of Investigations. The CBI should also investigate the murder of VHP leader Lakshmanananda Saraswati.

7. Expand the terms of reference of the sitting Judicial Commission headed by Mr. Justice Basudeo Panigrahi to fix responsibility and culpability on government servants of all ranks, as also on guilty politicians.

8. Grant exemplary compensation to the next of kin of the dead, and to the injured. Grant immediate relief and rehabilitation to the victims so that they can rebuild their homes, get back their jobs and resume normal human lives.

9. Compensate the Church to rebuild and restore its religious, educations, and humanitarian institutions.

10. Set up Fast Track criminal court to try those found guilty at all levels during all phases of the violence.

This alone will prove to the world that India remains a secular country, which gives Constitutional guarantees of the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, the freedom of faith to its citizens, and for its children, the right to food, education and a childhood without the trauma of terror and the fear of death,

Thank you

God bless you, and God bless Orissa

In prayer

The Christian Community pf Delhi and the National Capital Region
Together with our brothers and sisters from other states.

Petitions Against Attack on Christians in Orissa

Something Everybody Can Do

Sign these petitions. Show Solidarity

1. Petition Against Attack on Christians in Orissa

2. Stop killing of Christians and destruction of Churches in Orissa, India

Ahmedabad Citizens Condemn Orissa Violence

CONCERN ON VIOLENT ATTACKS

ON

CHRISTIANS OF ORISSA

PRESS RELEASE

Several Concerned Citizens and Human Rights organizations of Gujarat held a meeting in Ahmedabad today (27th August 2008) to condemn the violent attacks on the Christian community of Orissa, following the brutal killing of the VHP leader Swami Laxmananda Saraswati.

The meeting strongly condemned the continuous attacks on Christian organizations and institutions by the VHP, Bajrang Dal, etc. and was of the view that the Government of Orissa has totally failed in protecting the lives and properties of the Christian Community. Looking to the prevalent situation of Orissa, the Constitutional machinery has absolutely failed in maintaining law and order in the State.

In view of this, the meeting unanimously passed the following resolutions:

1.. That the State of Orissa be placed under the control of army and President's Rule be imposed immediately.

2.. That the citizens who have fled into the jungles out of fear, should be brought back to their homes safely and that complete security be ensured to them.

3.. That all organizations who had declared the Orissa Bandh, and who have been directly involved in the violent attacks on Christians, should be declared as "terrorist" organizations and should be put under the same category of other banned organizations in the country, with immediate effect.

4.. That all the individuals and groups involved in violent attacks on Christians should be arrested and strictly dealt with in accordance with the law.

5.. That the brutal killing of Swami Laxmananda and his associates should be thoroughly and impartially investigated, and that the killers be punished in accordance with the law.

1.. Adv. S. H. Iyer
2.. Rohit Patel
3.. Saroop Dhruv
4.. Gautam Thaker
5.. Hiren Gandhi
6.. Adv. Bhushan
7.. Dwarikanath Rath
8.. Shamshul Pathan
9.. Joseph Dominic
10.. Kiran Desai
11.. Kishore
12.. S. Pandey
13.. Deepika R.
14.. Simon F. Parmar
15.. Edwin Masihi
16.. Beena Macwan
17.. D. Ramakrishnan
18.. Fr. Varghese Paul sj
19.. Digant Oza
20.. Paul D'Souza sj
21.. Piyush
22.. Manjula Lavji
23.. John D'Souza
24.. Ashok Singh
25.. Iqbal Baig
26.. Prasad Chacko
27.. Waqar Qazi
28.. Mary Paul
29.. Bhavna Ramrakhiani
30.. Sheba George
31.. Fr. Francis Parmar sj
32.. Ashok Naik
33.. Fr. Vinayak Jadav sj
34.. Lona Pinto
35.. Fr. Ishanand sj
36.. E. Shailaja Pillai
37.. Sophia Khan
38.. Freeda Coelho
39.. Pravin Bhikadira
40.. Chetana Vyas
41.. Jigna Joshi
42.. Harsh Jadav
43.. Fr. Cedric Prakash sj
44.. Kaushik Raval
45.. Nafisa Barot
46.. Veronica D'Souza
47.. Hanif Lakdawala
48.. R. Vasantha

27th August 2008

Goa Archdiocese Expresses Solidarity with Orissa Victims

The following is the approved English translation from the original Konkani, of the Circular Letter sent by Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrao to all the Parish Priests of the Archdiocese:

CIRCULAR LETTER

To the Priests, Religious, Lay Faithful and People of good will

(Approved English version of the Circular Letter No. CP-Cir/202/2008
written originally in Konkani language)

Theme: Violence in the State of Orissa

Dearly Beloved,

The happenings taking place these days in Orissa cannot but cause concern. VHP leader, Swami Lakshananda Saraswati and four of his companions were shot at and murdered in their Ashram and, since then, Christian individuals and institutions are being targeted and destroyed.

The Catholic Bishops in India have expressed their sorrow and registered their protest over the killing of the Swami and the ensuing spate of violence and asked for prayers for peace; together with them, we too expressed our feelings over these events: you will have read this on the newspapers.

However, there is no guarantee that these chilling events will end soon and there do not seem to be signs that this communally disturbed atmosphere will be cleared easily. Some organizations in Orissa are laying the blame on the Christian Community, thus fanning the anti-Christian communal flame across the State. This has resulted, among other acts of violence, in the tragic burning to death of a woman working at an orphanage and of a paralytic man in his own house. Two priests and a few religious women were also seriously injured. Some priests and nuns have gone into hiding.

We cannot remain indifferent in such a situation. We need to express our solidarity with our brothers and sisters who are going through untold suffering. It is with this in mind that we have planned to take the following initiatives in our Archdiocese:

All Catholic educational institutions in the Archdiocese shall remain closed on August 29.

September 7, Sunday, will be observed as a day of prayer and fasting.

A signature campaign will be organized to express our condemnation.

Protest Rallies will be held in a couple of places in Goa. More details will follow.

In view of the situation in Orissa, we appeal urgently to our Priests, Religious men and women, Christian faithful and all women and men of good will to express their solidarity with those who are suffering so grievously and, through their prayers for peace and communal harmony, to help these programmes meet with success.

Archbishop's House, Panjim, Goa, August 27, 2008.

Sd/-
+ Filipe Neri Ferrão
Archbishop of Goa and Daman

Pope Condemns Violence, Appeals for Peace

Pope: In India, Religious and Civil Authorities Must Work to Stop the Violence

Firm condemnation from Benedict XVI for what is taking place in Orissa, for "every attack on human life". Solidarity with the Christian victims of attacks by Hindus. For the faithful present at the general audience, he drew a portrait of Saint Paul, "tireless apostle of the Gospel".

The Pope's Words...

"I have learned with deep sadness the news about the violence against the Christian communities in the Indian State of Orissa, which erupted following the deplorable murder of the Hindu leader Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati. Some persons have been killed and others injured. Worship centers, church property and private houses have also been destroyed.

While I firmly condemn all attacks against human life, the sacredness of which demands the respect of all, I express my spiritual closeness and solidarity to the brothers and sisters in the faith so hardly tried. I implore the Lord to accompany and support them in this time of suffering and give them the strength to continue in the service of love in favour of all.

I ask the religious leaders and civil authorities to work together to restore among the members of the various communities the peaceful coexistence and harmony which have always been the distinguishing mark of the Indian society."

Download and Listen: Real audio broadcast by Vatican Radio.

Vatican Deplores Orissa Violence

Two Downloadable Audio Stories from Vatican Radio.

1. Anti-Christian Violence Rocks Orissa, India
Download Link: http://62.77.60.84/audio/ra/00127342.RM (314 KB)

2. Vatican Deplores Anti-Christian Violence in India
(26 Aug 08 - RV) A Statement from the Press Office released today in response to recent deadly episodes of anti-Christian violence in India, the Holy See deplores the actions of extremists, expresses solidarity with the local Churches in the country and appeals for a return to a climate of dialogue and mutual respect. The President of the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue, Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran has condemned the attacks, as well. We have this report...
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Orissa Church Condemns Swami's Murder

Orissa Church Condemns The Brutal Murder Of Swami Laxmananda

BALASORE, AUG. 26, 2008, 15.00 Hrs (CBCI News):

The Catholic Community in Orissa was once again terribly shocked by the brutal murder of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his close associates. A series of massacres of religious personnel in recent years had left State in anguish, fear and anxiety. In a sensational incident Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati and four of his associates have been shot dead attack at around 9 PM on 23rd August, at Jalaspotta Ashram, in Tumudi Bandh area in the tribal dominated district of Kandhamal in Southern Orissa on Saturday night. We, the Catholic community in Orissa deeply condemn the barbarous incident and deeply sympathize with the near and dear ones of the deceased.

Condemning the killing, Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishop Thomas Thiruthalil C.M, D.D the Chairman of OCBC (Orissa Catholic Bishops’ Conference) asked the people to maintain peace and harmony in the wake of the killing of Swami Laxmananda The church in Orissa condemns the brutal murder of Swami Laxmananda. The church believes the strong Legislature of our democratic Nation and that the law and order will take its course in right time.

There has been incidents of antisocial and communal disturbances in the State. The Church is shocked and deeply saddened by this barbarous killing which is the outcome of a growing climate of intolerance and violence against peace and harmony in the State. It is time that we the people of Orissa in spite of the differences of caste, creed and cultures work together for the peace, harmony, tolerance, and solidarity among us all.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Thomas Thiruthalil C.M, D. D
Chairman – OCBC &
Bishop of Balasore

EFI Denounces Swami's Killing

EFI Condemns Killing of Orissa Hindu Nationalist Leader; Prays for Peace

Aug 25, 2008

Monday, August 25, 2008: Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) denounces the killing of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Swami Laxmananda Saraswati and his four associates by suspected Maoists in Orissa state’s Kandhamal district on August 23.

While deeply saddened by the week-long spate of attacks that hit Kandhamal district during last Christmas , EFI, as a representative of the evangelical church in India, stands against every act of violence and terrorism.

EFI also regrets that vested interests among the various Hindu nationalist groups are trying to blame local Christians for the act, as reflected in the acts of vandalism and arson reported from Kandhamal after the attack on Saraswati’s ashram.

EFI appeals to the central, state and district authorities to take all possible measures to maintain peace and calm in Kandhamal. EFI also calls for the Christian community in India and abroad to pray for protection of the Christians in Kandhamal and other parts of Orissa.

EFI also solicits letters, faxes and phone calls by concerned people to the state and central officials, whose details are given below.


Dr. Manmohan Singh
Prime Minister of India
Room No. 152,
South Block,
New Delhi, 110001

(O) Tel : +91-11-23012312
(O) Fax: +91-11-23016857


Shri Navin Patnaik
Chief Minister of Orissa
Naveen Nivas,
Aerodrome Road,
P.O.-Bhubaneswar,
District-Khurda,
Pin-751001 (Orissa)

(O) Tel: +91-0674-2531100, 2535100, 2531500
(O) Fax: +91-674-2400100
(R) Tel: +91-0674-2590299, 2591099,2590844,2591100,2590833
Email:cmo@ori.nic.in


Superintendent of Police
Kandhamal District

(O) Tel: +91-6842-253610
(R) Tel: +91-6842-253611


Rev. Dr. Richard Howelll
General Secretary
Evangelical Fellowship of India
New Delhi, India

Evangelical Fellowship of India (established 1951) is a charter member of World Evangelical Alliance, an accredited NGO with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations

Prashant Condemns Swami's Killing, Violence

Prashant. A Centre for Human Rights, Justice and Peace
Post Box No. 4050, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009, Gujarat, India
Tel. : +91 (079) 66522333, 2745 5913
Fax : +91 (079) 2748 9018
Mobile : 9824034536. e-mail : sjprashant@gmail.com
www.humanrightsindia.in

STATEMENT CONDEMNING

THE

KILLINGS AND VIOLENCE IN ORISSA

We condemn the killing of Swami Saraswati and four of his associates during the attack on the VHP Ashram in the Kandhamal District of Orissa on Saturday 23rd August 2008.

We sympathize with the bereaved members of the families who have lost their loved ones.

We call upon the Orissa and the Central Governments to do all in their power to bring to book immediately, those responsible for this dastardly act; that anti-social elements do not take law and order into their own hands and above all, to ensure that peace and calm prevail in the area, and in other parts of Orissa.

Violence, for whatever the provocation, is non-acceptable, and will definitely not help achieve the goals for which these acts are committed. We therefore call upon all those responsible for these acts and to eschew violence immediately.

No violence can be justified, for whatever the reason. However, for the last several months, the Government of Orissa has allowed some fascist and fundamentalist forces to terrorize the poor, the marginalized and the minorities of the State. These forces have carried on their virulent propaganda and their violent acts with apparent immunity.

There has been a total abdication of responsibility by the Government of Orissa and the concerned authorities, like the police. They should now also be held totally responsible for these deaths and for allowing the situation to go out of control.

Sufficient warning has been given to the Orissa Government, of the deteriorating situation, as early as in September 2006, with the publication of "Communalism in Orissa" - the Report of the Indian People's Tribunal on Environment and Human Rights - headed by Justice K. K. Usha (Retd.) former Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court.

It may still not be too late to ensure that the Constitutional Rights and Freedoms of the people of Orissa are not merely guaranteed by also protected by the State.

Fr. Cedric Prakash sj
Director

25th August 2008

AICC Condemns Violence, Swami's Killing

All India Christian Council
A-8, Mahavir Enclave, New Delhi 110045,
Telefax: 011 28042194, Email: aiccdelhi@gmail.com,
www.indianchristians.in

For Immediate Release

Christians Condemn Violence, Killing of VHP leader; Hope Peace Will Be Maintained in Orissa

New Delhi, August 24, 2008 (All India Christian Council)

The All India Christian Council is deeply concerned at the attack on an ashram near Tumudibandh in Kandhamal District of Orissa last night in which the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Lakshmanananda Saraswati and four of his associates were killed.

This is the latest in a series of attacks over recent months by political extremists, often called Naxalites or Maoist guerillas, which have left dozens of policemen and others dead in several districts of Orissa.

Dr. Sam Paul, aicc National Secretary of Public Affairs, said, "The Christian community in India abhors violence, condemns all acts of terrorism, and opposes groups of people taking the law into their own hands. We have had major differences with Mr. Saraswati, the deceased VHP leader. It was the hate campaigns of the Sangh Parivar which led to untold misery for Christians -- including the unprecedented violence last Christmas in Orissa. But we wish peace to everyone and urge everyone to follow the rule of law."

According to media reports, the attack killed four people in addition to Saraswati. The attack involved shooting and hand grenade explosions. Saraswati was reportedly warned by the Maoists a few days prior to the incident to leave the area. (See CNN-IBN, Naxals attack ashram, kill 5 key VHP leaders in Orissa, Aug. 24, 2008)

Dr. John Dayal, aicc Secretary General, said, "We are concerned at reports of communal violence in the last few hours against innocent Christians in nearby districts. We've heard that at least one prayer hall in Sudergarh was burnt, the van of some Catholic nuns was destroyed, and the sisters were injured. We urgently appeal to the Chief Minister, the Governor of Orissa, and the Minister of Home Affairs Mr. Shivraj Patil to take whatever steps are required to maintain peace and harmony in all areas of Orissa, to prevent further attacks on Christians, and to arrest those responsible for the deaths of Saraswati and his associates."

Dr. P.R. Parichha, aicc Orissa state president, said, "The situation in the district was slowly returning to normal. People were engaged in rebuilding houses and settling down after a horrifying experience over Christmas 2007. Now we are afraid that the death of Saraswati will further destabilise the situation in the communally-sensitive Kandhamal district. The aicc will continue to work for peace in Orissa, one of the most undeveloped states in the country."

The All India Christian Council (www.aiccindia.org), birthed in 1998, exists to protect and serve the Christian community, minorities, and the oppressed castes. The aicc is a coalition of thousands of Indian denominations,organizations, and lay leaders.

Release by

Sd/-
Mr. Madhu Chandra
Regional Secretary,
9868184939

CBCI Condemns Swami's Murder

CBCI condemns the murder of VHP Leader and Appeals for Peace in Orissa

PRESS RELEASE

August 24, 2008

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) expresses its deep regret on the attack of ashram near Tumudibandh in Kandhamal District of Orissa last night in which the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Lakshmanananda Saraswati and five others were killed.

Orissa has been witnessing a series of Maoist attacks in the recent past and it is most deplorable that the outlaws targeted a religious leader who was held in high esteem by his followers.

His Eminence Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil, the President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has denounced the murder of the VHP leader as an act of desperation by the outlaws in the State.

"We condemn the act of violence which claimed the lives of Swami Lakhsmananda Saraswati and some others at his Asharam. We are sad that a respected religious leader has allegedly been a victim of organized violence by the Maoists.

Equally deplorable is the act of vandalism and arson on the Christian institutions in Kandhmal District indulged by some misguided and unruly elements. We appeal to the people of Orissa to maintain calm at this hour of crisis and bring the tense situation to normal at the earliest so that people and institutions are protected and preserved. We also appeal to the State and Central Governments to take adequate measures to contain violence and to restore peace in the disturbed areas of Orissa."

Release to the press for publication

Rev Dr Babu Joseph, SVD
Spokesperson, CBCI

Abp Cheenath Condemns Swami's Killing

CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF CUTTACK - BHUBABNESWAR
ARCHBISHOP'S HOUSE
9/16 SATYANAGAR
BHUBANESWAR – 751007
ORISSA, INDIA
Tel: (0674) 2575225, 2533614 Tel Fax: (0674) 2534097

PRESS RELEASE

24 August, 2008

I, the Archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, on behalf of the Christians of Orissa, particularly the catholic Christians, strongly condemn the dastardly attack and violent killing of Swami Laxamananda Saraswati and five of his associates. We the Christians abhor violence and condemn all acts of violence and terrorism and are against all groups of people taking the law into their own hands. We condole the death of Swami Laxamananda Saraswati, a religious leader and his associates. At this critical juncture I appeal to all for peace and communal harmony. We want good relationship with all the communities with whom we live.

We are also concerned at the immediate outbreak of communal violence against innocent Christians in nearby districts. Early reports suggest that least one prayer hall in Sundergarh District has been burnt and vehicle belonging to Daughters of the most Precious Blood has been burnt near G. Udayagir.

We urgently appeal to the Chief Minister and the Governor of Orissa and at the Indian Home Minister Mr. Shivraj Patil to take whatever steps are require to maintain peace and harmony in all areas of states, to prevent further attacks on Christians and to bring to book those responsible for the death of Lakshmanananda Saraswati and his associates.

We, therefore, strongly condemn the death of Swami Laxamananda Saraswati.

Most Rev. Raphael Cheenath, SVD
Archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar
Released to the Media for publication/ telecast.