India should again become a model of inter-faith coexistence, says Pakistan bishop

(Sept.2, 2008): - In Pakistan, Archbishop Lawrence Saldanha of Lahore, and leader of one of the most persecuted Churches in Asia, wrote to the Churches in Orissa to express his solidarity. Archbishop Saldanha, who is the chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Pakistan, called on political authorities in India, to take all possible steps to turn India into a role model for inter-faith peace and harmony in the region.
In his letters to India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and to the chief minister of Orissa, Archbishop Saldanha offered “his condolences over the loss of human life and his deep sorrow and concern over the destruction of places of worship and properties in attacks on Christians in the state of Orissa.” In both the letters Archbishop Saldanha urged Indian authorities “to take the necessary steps to protect religious minorities.” He said that attacks against minorities, especially Christians, have become commonplace, and taking a clear position on the matter can help settle the issue.” Archbishop Saldanha, urged Indian authorities “to investigate these incidents and bring those responsible for these terrible crimes to justice”.
According to the Bishops of Pakistan, “the situation is worrisome in the whole South Asian region.” In fact, violence against Christian minorities have been reported in India and Pakistan, as well as Sri Lanka, accompanied in some cases by anti-conversion laws and incidents that heighten tension between religious communities.