Minister of State for Minority Affairs John Barla has called on Arunachal Pradesh’s two Catholic bishops and dis-cussed crucial issues affecting Christians in the north-eastern Indian state and the country.
The minister was on a five-day tour that ended October 31. He met Bishop John Thomas of Itanagar on October 28 and Bishop George Pallipparambil two days later at their residences.
Bishop Thomas expressed happiness at the minister’s visit which he said was a recognition of the presence of minorities in the state.
The minister was apprised of the difficulties faced by the minorities, especially Christians, in various states of India.
Minister Barla with Arunachal children “We are happy that the minister gave us a patient hearing to our concerns and assured us that all our concerns would be addressed,” Bishop Thomas said.
Barla met Bishop Pallipparambil on the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Pope Francis at the Vatican.
Welcoming the minister on his maiden visit to the state, the Salesian bishop said, “It is indeed a happy coincidence that our Honorable Minister, John Barla, is here with us in Miao diocese when our Prime Minister is making his maiden visit to the Holy Father.”