Q: The Christian minority says it is finding itself in an uncomfortable and persecuted situation. What do you think of it? There is also the case of 49 eminent citizens on whom criminal cases were registered for writing a letter to the Prime Minister criticizing instances of lynching in India.

A: “In general, the minority does feel insecure. When they speak about minority, there is much concentration on Muslims, but the Christians also feel this kind of marginalization. They accused Christians of preaching Christ and converting. The Muslims in turn are accused of Love Jihad and terrorism. Some leaders of BJP, RSS make inflammatory remarks, but, in reality, what I feel is that the higher level leaders are not that fanatical. They allow others to speak out whatever they want. While they appear as peacemakers and talk about unity, they don’t take any conciliatory action. It is because of lack of action and lack of accountability that the minorities feel threatened. Usually, the higher level leaders do not condemn false allegations and threats made by the fanatic elements. When minority leaders approach, they are quiet sympathetic and show much understanding, which is an irresponsible way of behaving. The cases slapped against the 49 eminent people who wrote letters to Prime Minister is a very serious development. I find it very surprising that just pointing out something wrong to the government is considered anti-national. Earlier we placed our hopes in the judiciary, but the courts also are going in a direction that belies such hopes.”

Abp Leo Cornelio
Bhopal