Kerala Churches Denounce Terror Attacks in Kashmir, Express Solidarity with the Government
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Synopsis
Various Christian leaders in Kerala condemned the recent terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 people, primarily tourists. They expressed unwavering support for the Indian government in addressing this tragedy and emphasized the need for unity against terrorism.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala churches united in condemnation of terror.
- Attack in Kashmir claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.
- Church leaders call for prayer and solidarity.
- Support for government efforts to combat terrorism.
- Importance of unity against divisive actions.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 23 (NationPress) Leaders of multiple Christian denominations in Kerala on Wednesday denounced the horrific terror attack in J&K's Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists from various parts of India, and left numerous others injured.
Right Reverend Dr Euyakim Mar Coorilos, the Suffragan Metropolitan or the second-ranking official of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church, stated to IANS that the event is tragic and will be universally condemned.
“Innocent lives have been unjustly taken due to the actions of a terrorist group. We stand united with our nation and those who have lost loved ones. Let us all pray for the safety of our country and its people,” he expressed.
Bishop Dr Oommen George of the Church of South India conveyed to IANS that they firmly support the government's efforts to address the terror attack that occurred on Tuesday.
“It is well known that India, particularly Kashmir, is on a path of rapid progress and development, and this act is a ploy by hostile forces to undermine our morale. We believe that the entire Indian populace will remain resolutely united to counter such threats,” the Bishop asserted.
The spokesperson for the influential Kerala Catholic Bishop Council, Reverend Fr Thomas Tharayil, remarked that the heinous act by the terrorists, selecting and targeting individuals based on their religion, is an assault on the peace-loving secular populace worldwide.
“Everyone must stand firmly against this divisive act based on religion. We must all support those combating these divisive tendencies, which require a strong response,” the KCBC stated in a release.
“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and with all those globally who have suffered similar tragedies,” it concluded.
George Sebastian, the General Secretary of the Assembly of Christian Trust Services (ACTS), which encompasses various prominent Christian denominations, told IANS that it is crucial to extend full support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration during this crisis.
“The swift action taken by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who promptly visited Pahalgam, along with the Prime Minister’s abbreviated trip to Saudi Arabia, underscores the seriousness with which the Union government is treating this incident... those responsible must be silenced once and for all, and India is capable of doing so,” he remarked.
