Easter message contains concern over elections

Delivering the Easter message in Kochi on Sunday, Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil, president of Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), expressed grave concern over the election amidst violence and inadequate security of Christians in the country.

The Christian leader criticized major political parties in the country – the BJP, CPM and UPA government for its failure to upload secular values and promote communal harmony. He accused the parties for being silent over the atrocities against Christians in Orissa, Karnataka and Kerala.

The VHP, he said, is still having a free run even after police have identified the role of their activists in causing the mayhem.

"Kandhamal became the cemetery of the Indian democracy. A number of Christians lost their houses," he voiced.

The Archbishop warned people to be careful of political and misleading ideologies that spread communal hatred. He also opined that the electorate should only vote to parties that can strengthen the Indian constitution and give special emphasis to the minorities.

Earlier, the CBCI appealed to the electorate to "be true to the letter and spirit of the Preamble and the Provisions of the Constitution of India without any sectarian/party persuasion."

"They should select and promote candidates without any criminal record or background and having the genuine concerns of youth, women and particularly of the poor and marginalized at heart," the appeal said.

Meanwhile, Christians in the country peacefully celebrated Easter on Sunday.

Special services, masses and prayers were organised to mark the day.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh greeted the people on the occasion and said, "The universal significance of Christ's resurrection is that truth triumphs over evil and love is stronger than hatred. Easter celebrates compassion and brotherhood and the hope of a better tomorrow."

"May the celebrations strengthen the bonds of unity and fellowship among citizens," he added.