A Karnataka-based Christian forum organised the peace rally at Bengaluru's Freedom Park in solidarity with the suffering brethren of Manipur.
Published Jul 15, 2023 | 8:58 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 15, 2023 | 8:59 PM
United Christian Forum members handing over the memorandum to the Governor of Karnataka
Coming down heavily on the Union government for its failure in containing the ongoing violence in Manipur, five-time Congress MP Margaret Alva demanded to know the agenda behind the strife that has now spanned over 75 days.
Shooting questions at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, she asked why the government could not restore peace in the relatively small hill state despite deploying the Army and other paramilitary forces in large numbers.
Alva also drew attention to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s continued silence on the issue.
She asked what was preventing the prime minister from speaking when he had the time to hop around the world and receive irrelevant accolades when a state in his own country was on fire.
Alva was addressing a rally organised by the All Karnataka United Forum for Christian Human Rights (AKUFCHR) in Bengaluru’s Freedom Park on Saturday, 15 July.
The peace rally was held in solidarity with the victims of Manipur violence. AKUFCHR is an organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of Christians in Karnataka.
“Don’t try to fool us by telling that it (the violence) is an old ethnic problem continuing for decades between two communities. The home minister went there twice and nothing happened. The Army seems to be helpless in restoring peace. It is an open secret that arms and ammunitions are made available to anti-social elements,” she told the gathering of around 1,000 people from various Christian congregations and denominations in Bengaluru.
The AKUFCHR later submitted a memorandum to the Governor. “We urge all stakeholders, including the government, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to prioritise peace-building efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in Manipur,” it demanded.
The violence that broke out on 3 May has left around 200 people dead and injured more than 300 others. As of 3 July, 5,053 cases of arson had been reported, displacing 54,488 people.
“Disturbing reports of targeted violence, vandalism of churches, and threats against Christians have instilled fear and anguish among the community. In response, the Christian community has united in large numbers to express and demonstrate our solidarity with the suffering humanity,” the AKUFCHR said.
Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Bengaluru, Peter Machado, said the violence had been projected as an ethnic problem, but there was deep-rooted animosity against Christians. More than 100 churches were demolished in the northeastern state, he added.
“We appeal to the government and the authorities concerned to restore peace in the strife-torn state of Manipur and also to take care of the damages that have caused,” Bishop Machado appealed.
He stated that the Archdiocese of Bengaluru had taken up the responsibility of providing free education, food, accommodation, and even jobs to such victims of violence.
The bishop also appealed to the entire Christian community to contribute to help and support the victims. Pastor Dexter Maben of the St Andrew’s Church in Bengaluru was also present.
The peace rally organised by the United Christian Forum (UCF) under the AKUFCHR banner aimed at emphasising the importance of rebuilding trust and confidence among the affected population.
“Immediate action must be taken to disarm vigilantes and anti-social elements and prevent them from taking the law into their hands. Additionally, the restoration of damaged houses, public properties, and the numerous desecrated and vandalised churches are crucial for reinstating a sense of security and normalcy,” the AKUFCHR said.
The ongoing violence has created widespread fear and insecurity among the people of Manipur, forcing many to abandon their homes and seek refuge in relief camps. Despite the deployment of security forces, the violence persists.
“It is clear that peace is the essential pre-requisite for the progress and development of the beautiful northeastern region. Only through peace can society thrive and move forward together,” the organisation added.
