Gujarat government restores Good Friday as public holiday

Ahmedabad – Christians in Gujarat have something to cheer about this year. The pro–Hindu local government has relented to the demands of the minority community and have reversed its order of cancelling Good Friday as a public holiday.

According to national executive member and joint secretary of the All–India Christian Council, Mr. Samson C. Christian, the BJP government in Gujarat had restored the Good Friday holiday through its special order on February 1.

"The entire Christian community in India, particularly in Gujarat welcomes the State Government’s decision. We congratulate the chief minister on his fair decision," said Mr. Christian, in a press release.

He said the Government’s decision to restore the holiday came after a series of protests were organised by the All Indian Christian Council and other Christian organisations in the country during the last two years. There was also constant pressure on the Narendra Modi Government from various rights organisations and central government departments concerned, he said.

The AICC had even moved the Gujarat High Court seeking restoration of the Good Friday holiday.

"The Christian community is thankful the Government has finally given the minority community justice. It is the fruit of our continuous efforts and pressure on the Government to allow Christians to properly observe Good Friday," Mr. Christian said.

Good Friday commemorates the passion and death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Christians world over observe the day by fasting and participating in daylong prayers and charity. Good Friday will be celebrated this year on March 25.