Did PM Modi Have a ‘Wonderful Interaction’ with Syro-Malabar Church Leaders?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Significant dialogue between PM Modi and Syro-Malabar Church leaders.
- The meeting addressed crucial issues for the Christian community in India.
- PM Modi emphasized a commitment to inclusivity in governance.
- Request to invite the Pope to India was presented.
- Continued cooperation in education and social welfare was discussed.
New Delhi, Nov 4 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared that he had a “remarkable discussion” with Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, the leader of the Syro-Malabar Church, Archbishop Dr Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, and various senior Church representatives, during their meeting in New Delhi aimed at addressing matters related to the Church and the Christian community in India.
“I am always here to assist you,” the Prime Minister expressed to the group during what was characterized as a warm and productive session.
The delegation, headed by Major Archbishop Thattil, also featured Archbishop Bharanikulangara from the Faridabad Archdiocese and other bishops representing the Syro-Malabar Church — the most prominent among the three Churches in Kerala that recognize the Pope's authority.
Topics discussed revolved around the welfare of Christian minorities and their contributions to India’s social and developmental landscape.
Kerala BJP leaders, including State President and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar along with party figure Shone George, were also in attendance.
Chandrasekhar later informed reporters that the gathering was primarily a courtesy visit, during which the bishops presented wider concerns regarding micro-minority rights and community advancement.
“The Prime Minister listened with care and assured the delegation that the government is open to discussions on all matters,” he noted.
He further stated that the BJP maintains an inclusive approach, governing beyond religious boundaries.
“We do not view issues through a religious lens. Our party serves everyone, and the rule of law will always take precedence. The BJP is, and will continue to be, a service-oriented party,” emphasized the State President.
The bishops also put forth a request for the Prime Minister to extend an invitation to the Pope to visit India.
Sources mentioned that the delegation valued PM Modi’s assurances and expressed optimism for ongoing collaboration in sectors such as education, social welfare, and community involvement.
This meeting occurs against the backdrop of the Church’s increasing interaction with national political authorities, illustrating a developing conversation between faith-based organizations and the government concerning minority welfare, social cohesion, and participatory development.