Indian Christians leery of Hindu-nationalist group's invitation to dialogue
January 26, 2016
In India, a Hindu-nationalist group has called for dialogue with Christians, prompting a debate among Christians who question the value of talks with religious extremists, the Fides news service reports.
A leader of the Rastriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a group that is held responsible for numerous assaults on Christians, has announced a plan to “build bridges of goodwill with minority communities.” Bishop Sarat Chandra Nayak of Berhampur, in the state of Orissa, indicated that he was open to the possibility. “The Church must engage in dialogue at all levels to ensure justice and peace,” he said.
Other Christian leaders were skeptical. “Having a dialogue with RSS would give them undue legitimacy,” said one human-rights activist. “Dialogue with a violent and militant organization like RSS means playing with fire,” said another.
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