Top Indian Official Apologizes to Christians; Encourages Them to Return Home
"I am here to remove your fear and assure you that Center and State government will offer all protection...Go back to your villages. Build your homes and churches and practice your religion without any fear."
(India)—India's top government official, Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram,"infused a message of hope and confidence into the Christian community after visiting Kandhamal district in the state of Orissa" last week, notes a report in Christian Today.
The minister was reportedly "appalled by the violence and its consequences on Christians," and "offered adequate security and rehabilitation measures to help the affected start their lives newly." (Photo: Home Minister P Chidambaram/Reuters)
While visiting relief camps at Mandaika, Rahikola, Tiangia and Tikabali, Chidambaram said: "I am sorry ...but you must go back to your villages. I am here to remove your fear and assure you that Center and State government will offer all protection. Go back to your villages," he continued, "build your homes and churches and practice your religion without any fear."
The report also stated that when victims expressed their fears of returning home, the minister assured them.
"Whoever has been found accused or involved in violent activities," he said, "will be prosecuted and punished. Christians are living all over the country. Nobody has any rights to question you on your identity or citizenship. Fear is your worst enemy. Counter this with boldness and start life afresh."
