Jesuit tells religious leaders: Hindu nationalism deflects from real social problems

(4 Oct.2006)-: An appeal was made to India’s religious leaders to involve themselves in the social development of the country rather than indulging in religious fundamentalism and obscurantism, which deflect from the reality of every day life. This call came from Jesuit priest, Fr.Cedric Prakash, as he talked to AsiaNews about the fifth anniversary of the foundation of Prashant, the human rights Centre of which he is director. During the anniversary celebrations, Fr Prakash recalled the many human rights abuses perpetrated in Gujarat and other parts of India and said: - "It is an occasion to reiterate the urgency to respond to these injustices." In his commitment, the Jesuit has found the full collaboration of a famous social activist and religious leader: Swami Agnivesh, head of the Aryasamaj sect. Invited to address the anniversary event, he gave a speech entitled "If you want peace, work for truth and justice".
Swami Agnivesh, who has always supported the cause of Prashant, announced the launch of a movement called Bharat Navnirman Mahaabhiyan. "Various religious leaders will come together for a common cause of social awareness. They will be involved in raising awareness about issues like religion, child labour, communal violence, inter caste marriages, equality and education for all." The national campaign will start on 11 October and 75 religious leaders have already pledged participation. They will hold public lectures in different cities. In his address, Swami Agnivesh severely criticised the draft anti-conversion bill under scrutiny in Gujarat, condemned also by the Catholic Church. He also urged the government to formulate a policy of rehabilitation of bonded labourers, including children.Thanks to his constant efforts, around 175,000 bonded labourers have been released and rehabilitated in the last 20 years.