Indian bishops urge ‘utmost firmness’ in dealing with terrorism

July 15, 2011

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has issued a statement condemning the July 13 Mumbai (Bombay) bomb attacks that killed 21 and injured over 130.

After “expressing their deep anguish at the dastardly act,” the bishops stated that

Mumbai, unfortunately, has again been a victim of mindless violence at the hands of awfully misguided elements and this must be fought with all resolve on our side. And we believe that it is a time when the whole country needs to be united to take on terrorism with utmost firmness. United in the spirit of brotherhood, we will be able to overcome the powers that seek to destabilize our country.

“We appeal to the Government to do all within its powers to deal firmly with those lawless elements behind this heinous crime,” the bishops added. “We also appeal to all sections of society to work together to thwart the nefarious designs of criminal groups and originations that have caused much damage to the social peace and amity.”

 

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Further information:

• Catholic Bishops of the country condemn the serial bomb blasts in Mumbai, make fervent appeal to people to maintain calm (CBCI)
• Catholic Bishops of India condemn Mumbai attacks (Vatican Radio)
• The auxiliary Bishop of Bombay, after the attacks: "violence will not triumph, we work for peace" (Fides)
• 13 July 2011 Mumbai bombings (Wikipedia)
• Mumbai: Cardinal Gracias joins in mourning after bombing attack (CWN, 7/13)