Punjab Deputy Chief Minister meets new Jalandhar bishop

Jalandhar, India, 10 August 2013: Deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal of India’s Punjab state, has met newly-appointed Catholic Bishop Franco Mulakkal of Jalandhar diocese.

The meeting took place on Aug 6 at the Trinity College Church in the city. Badal’s visit assumes significance as the diocese has major influence among Christians in Punjab. Earlier, the prelate while favoring conferring of SC status to Dalit Christians, had said he would urge the chief minister to take up the case with the Centre.

Sukhbir, participated in a 'Sarv Dharam' or all religious prayer organized by the diocese. According to sources, after the prayer, Sukhbir met the Bishop, whose coronation had recently taken place.

Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and Akal Takht jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh accompanied him.
Source: UCAN