6th Christian Rights Conference Held in Pune

Pune : Addressing the 6th Christian Rights Conference in Pune, Rajya Sabha MP P. Wilson raised a strong voice against the rising atrocities on the Christian community across India. He cited serious incidents such as the Manipur violence, the injustice faced by Fr. Stan Swamy, and attacks on churches, pastors, and Christian schools, stating that these acts represent a violation of constitutional rights by certain casteist forces.

Wilson emphasized the urgent need to reinvigorate the National Commission for Minorities and pledged to work towards ensuring political representation for Christians in Maharashtra. He also announced the formation of a national-level committee to address the pressing concerns of the community and advocated for constitutional benefits for Dalit Christians.The conference was organized by the Regional Christian Society under the leadership of Prashant (Lucas) Kedari. The event was chaired by Dilip Naik, and attended by prominent religious and social leaders including Fr. Rock Alphonso, Ps.Peter George, MLA Bapusaheb Pathare, former Deputy Mayor Dr.Siddharth Dhende, Fr. Vijay Nayak,Fr. Vijay Nayak, Fabian Samson, Samuel Sandyaraj, Nitin Kale, Republican Leader Rahul Dambale, Satish Mehendre, Muslim leader Zuber Memon, Fr. Joe Gaikwad, Khisal Jaffry, Adv. Bajirao Dalvi, Ps. Sudhir Sable, Steven Gode, Fr. Roland and several others from across Maharashtra.In his opening address, Prashant Kedari highlighted the growing intensity of violence and discrimination faced by the Christian community. He demanded the formation of a state-level security committee, political representation, and the establishment of a Christian Development Corporation. He also condemned the filing of false criminal cases intended to defame the community.

MP Wilson criticized the trend of fabricated cases of forced conversions and pointed to the daily increase in attacks against Christians. He condemned the silence on incidents like Manipur, attacks on churches, and violence against pastors and educators. He reiterated that Dalit Christians must be given their rightful constitutional reservations and benefits.Conference chair Dilip Naik emphasized the need to strengthen unity within the community and called for a state-level movement to secure political rights. He also announced plans for a statewide Christian convention.

Religious leaders such as Fr. Joe Gaikwad and Pastor Kelkar spoke on the need for empowerment and justice. Pastor Peter George led the opening prayer.MLA Bapusaheb Pathare pledged full support to the Christian community not just in Pune, but across Maharashtra, including assistance in establishing a Cultural Centre and an Economic Development Board.

Dr. Siddharth Dhende extended his full support to the conference, while Ambedkarite youth leader Rahul Dambale assured complete cooperation to safeguard the fundamental rights of Christians.Zuber Memon, The President of the Muslim Conference shared his support and compliments to the conference, Minister for Minorities Dattatraya Bharne conveyed their best wishes online. Bishop Thomas Dabre also sent his greetings virtually.

Hulgash Chalwadi remarked that Christians are a peace-loving community that plays a significant role in India’s educational system and should not be sidelined.The conference saw participation from Christian and minority leaders from across the state.Distinguished social activists and writers from the Christian community,Naresh Chavan and Lawrence Gaikwad were felicitated by giving awards. Organizations like the SFS Marathi Catholic Association, Yavhe Nissi Christian Organization,Preshit Foundation, RCA presdent Vinod Torne and others were honored for their service, Deepak Chakranarayan was recognized for his work with orphans.

Adv.Anton Kadam stressed the need for ensuring constitutional rights for converted Christians. The program was hosted by John Mantode.Women leaders from the Regional Christian Society, including Mary Parge, Salumi Torne, Sangeeta Kedari, Sangeeta Papani, Pratima Kedari, Sheetal Gaikwad, Mary Johnson, and dedicated volunteers such as Sudhir Shirsath, Peter Dsouza, Nitin Bhosale, Arun Kedari, Dilip Ghute, Murli Nair, Vinod Torne,Angel Gaikwad, Rocky D’Souza, Samson, John Kedari, and others contributed to the successful execution of the event.The vote of thanks was delivered by Mariyadas Telore.