Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Oct 7: “Karnataka Christian Social Welfare Association (KCSWA) has decided to organize a mega Christian convention in Udupi on November 4,” said president of the association, Harry D’souza at a press meet on Friday October 6.
The theme of the convention will be ‘Our Share, our Rights’.
“According to 2011 census, the Christian population in the state was 11.43 lac, yet we have been badly neglected by the government. In comparison with other minority communities, the concerned department of the government has completely neglected the interests of the Christian community. There are 10 lac Telugus, 23 lac Tamilians, 10 lac Malyalees residing in Kannada-Konkani speaking regions in Karnataka.”
“According to the law, some of the minority communities are included in categories - 1 and 2B. But Christian community is not getting required facilities by the government due to this categorization. Some of the Christians are included in 3B category considering the population,” he said.
“The KCSWA has given deadline of two months to chief minister Siddaramaiah to address their demands. In a memorandum submitted to the government, we have the following demands: To form a separate Karnataka Christian welfare commission, to reserve Rs 850 crore out of total Rs 2750 crore allotted in 2017 budget, to be included in separated class, to appoint a separate commission to examine the status and population of Christians in the state,” he added.
All party leaders, along with religious leaders are expected to participate in the convention.
A C Jayaraj, Sojan and Robert Menezes were present.