World church leader speaks on violence in India; PM assures federal assistance

The Rev. Dr. Samuel Kobia, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), expressed serious concern over the violence on Christians in India, during his inaugral speech at the 13th Ordinary Synod meeting of the Church of North India (CNI).

"India has been seen by the international community as the biggest democracy in the world and a herald of a hopeful global future. However, the forces breading communal violence are now destroying this image," he said adding, "Religious intolerance and communal disharmony have become threats to the peace and harmony of people in India. This trend seems to be taking affirm hold on India, and this has been noted by international communities."

The world church leader divulged that Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured him of federal assistance to rebuild churches and Christian houses destroyed in violence against the Christian community in Orissa.

Besides promises to extend financial assistance to rebuild destroyed and damaged churches, Singh said his government will also support Christian families that have lost their dwellings and other possessions in the violence.

Citing the Indian constitution that "guarantees freedom to practice and propagate one's faith" Singh assured Kobia that his government would take measures to restore the confidence of the Christian community.

"Christianity is part of our national heritage," the PM told Kobia, during their short meeting.

"We are extremely pleased to hear this assertion from the Indian prime minister," Kobia told a news conference.

When asked on forced conversions, Kobia told the press people "conversion is a matter of conscience and faith."

In addition, Kobia pointed that the WCC has been cooperating with Christian partners to formulate a "code of conduct" on conversions and is holding a dialogue with representatives of other faiths to live harmoniously in peace and love

The violence on Christians following the murder of a prominent VHP Hindu leader in Orissa has claimed over 60 lives. At least 5000 Christian houses and 150 churches have been looted and torched by the members of the saffron groups.

According to the All India christian Council, over 50,000 faithful have been forced to flee. Of these, only 14,000 are believed to be in refugee camps provided by the government. Tens of thousands are still hiding in the forest.