Cardinal Basilios Cleemis spoke out on Christmas Day. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s outreach to Christians did not match events on the ground. His comment came after PM Modi attended a morning service in New Delhi. The Cardinal referred to recent attacks on Christians in Kerala. He called the situation a clear contradiction.
The remarks followed an assault on a carol group in Palakkad. Police said the attack involved an RSS worker. The Cardinal said this raised concern within the Church. He said talks with leaders had not led to real change. According to Reuters, Church leaders in India have raised similar concerns this year.
Cardinal Cleemis Says Attacks Undercut PM Modi’s Christmas Message
The Cardinal said the Prime Minister’s visit to a church looked warm. But he said that warmth must reflect in action across the country. He explained that people feel unsafe when repeated attacks take place. Each case adds fear in local communities.
He said the Church speaks to authorities often. But he feels the promises are not carried out. He said this weakens trust between the community and the state. Many groups in Kerala have echoed this view in recent weeks.
State data shows several complaints from Christian groups this year. Most reports involve small gatherings, prayer groups, or youth events. Church leaders say these events draw unwanted attention from fringe groups. They want stronger response from police.
Concerns Grow as BJP Courts Christian Voters in Kerala
The criticism comes at a time when the BJP seeks more support in Kerala. Party leaders have met several Christian organisations in the past year. They have promised safety and inclusion. The Cardinal said such promises mean little if attacks continue.
Analysts say the BJP hopes to gain ground in regions with mixed communities. They believe Christian votes could shift the balance in some districts. But rising fear may slow that effort. Many families want clear, firm action against attackers.
The Christmas message from Church leaders this year stressed peace. They also asked for stronger protection for small prayer groups. As reported by the Associated Press, Christian groups across India have raised similar demands. They want quick arrests and steady legal action in all attack cases.
The issue remains tense. Cardinal Cleemis said the Prime Minister must match words with action. Many Christians now wait to see if the main keyword “Cardinal Cleemis” sparks wider change.
Thought you’d like to know-
Q1: Why did Cardinal Cleemis criticise PM Modi?
He said the Prime Minister’s Christmas visit did not match the rise in attacks on Christians. He pointed to the recent assault on a carol group in Kerala. He said this shows a gap between words and action.
Q2: What incident in Kerala raised concern?
A carol group in Palakkad was attacked. Police said an RSS worker was involved. The case increased fear among local Christian families.
Q3: Did PM Modi attend a Christmas service?
Yes. He attended a service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in New Delhi. His visit was part of his outreach to Christian communities.
Q4: Why is the timing important for Kerala?
The BJP is trying to gain support from Christian voters. Church criticism could affect that effort. Many voters want clear action on safety issues.
Q5: What do Church leaders want now?
They want strong and consistent protection. They also want firm legal steps against attackers. They hope this will restore trust.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
