Orissa bishop: government must protect Christians from Hindu fundamentalists
July 17, 2013
Following the gang rape of a nun in the eastern Indian state of Orissa (also known as Odisha), a leading local bishop demanded government action to protect Christians from Hindu fundamentalists.
“Violence still strikes Christians in Orissa,” said Bishop Thomas Thiruthalil of Balasore, president of the state’s episcopal conference. “Very often those responsible are Hindu fundamentalist groups who do not look kindly upon Christians. As a Church we are insisting with the government to ensure the safety and security of Christian-faith citizens.”
“Violence is always reprehensible,” he added. “Christians are victims because often accused of trying to convert the population. The fact is that our people are vulnerable and defenseless.”
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Further information:
- Violence against Christians in Orissa: for the Bishop "the government should act" (Fides)
- Cardinal decries rape of Orissa nun, low status of women in India (CWN, 7/16)
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