Cardinal Anthony Poola, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, has called on Indians to protect freedom, justice and equality as the country celebrated Independence Day on August 15.
In his Independence Day message, Cardinal Poola reminded citizens that India is a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic. He said that the freedom achieved by the nation’s founders should lead to greater humanity, justice, equality and care for poor and marginalized people.
The Cardinal also expressed concern about incidents of violence and intimidation against Christians. He stressed that every citizen should have the freedom to live, worship and serve without fear. He urged the authorities to protect the constitutional rights and freedoms of all citizens.
The message also raised concerns about a proposed amendment to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. Cardinal Poola called for the proposed legislation to be withdrawn, expressing concern that it could affect charitable organizations working in areas such as education, healthcare and humanitarian service.
He appealed to citizens to remember that India’s strength lies in its diversity. Religious, cultural and social differences, he said, should not become reasons for division.
Independence Day, therefore, should not be seen only as a celebration of the country’s freedom from colonial rule. It should also be an opportunity to examine whether freedom and equality are experienced by all sections of society.
Cardinal Poola called for renewed commitment to an India where freedom is respected, diversity is celebrated and every person can live with dignity and security.
His message placed justice, equality, constitutional values and unity at the center of the Independence Day celebrations.
