Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (JS)
Mangaluru, May 1: A seminar on 'Issues and concerns of our community' organized by the Sylvester Frank Centenary Foundation and the Catholic Association of South Kanara (CASK) was held at St Aloysius College auditorium here on Friday May 1.
Addressing the seminar, F T R Colaco, former director general of police (DGP) said, "It is a pleasure to be here in my hometown. We all have gathered here to discuss issues and concerns of our community. The main issue is the communal situation in our society. In many communal situations we Christians are soft targets. This is because of our beliefs and because we are small in numbers.
"We (Christians) have been attacked verbally and physically. In the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, many incidents of attacks on Christians and churches were reported. In the year 2008, churches were attacked here in Mangaluru by fanatics. Attacks on Christians are increasing in the entire nation. In recent developments, the Ghar Wapsi programmes are being conducted by radical Hindu groups," Colaco added.
Referring to recent statements against minorities by BJP MPs, he said, "MPs of Modi-led government have been giving statements attacking Christians. Though the Prime Minister has said that he would take strict action, nothing has been done and this is creating serious suspicion in our minds. To overcome these kind of attacks on Christians, all Christians need to unite. We have to talk when it is necessary and we have to talk with right facts. We have to stop the false and baseless allegations directed against us," Colaco concluded.
Addressing the gathering, mayor Jacintha Alfred said, "I feel privileged to be a part of this programme. I appreciate the organizers for holding this seminar. I thank each and every one for calling me to this event."
Mayor Jacintha Alfred was felicitated at this occasion.
Richie Rodrigues, Flavia Agnes, advocate, Mumbai High Court and social activist, PD Sebastine, principal SDM law college, Capt John Prasad Menezes, President,CASK, Dr Ronald Fernandes, bureau chief of Deccan Herald, Walter D'sa and others were present in the seminar.