Assam: Bishops of India call for peace

(Vatican Radio) The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has issued a statement calling for an end to violence in in the state of Assam. "The CBCI," reads the message, "is deeply pained at the violent clashes taking place in Lower Assam especially in the districts of Kokrajhar, Chirang, Dhubri and Bongaigaon and strongly requests the concerned communities to explore ways and means of living in love and brotherhood." The Bishops go on to say, "It is disheartening to hear that three districts of Assam are undergoing ethnic violence that has lead to loss of 40 deaths."
"The Church," say the bishops, "while expressing heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, assures solidarity with those displaced and suffering due to the clashes." Also according to the Statement, the bishops of India are, "exploring the possibilities of working together with the State administration and other like-minded NGOs in extending help in restoring peace and normalcy." Listen to our interview with CBCI spokesman, Fr. Dominic D'Abreo: