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New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he had a ‘wonderful conversation’ with Syro-Malabar Church head Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Archbishop Dr Kuriakose Bharanikulangara and other senior church leaders who met him in New Delhi to discuss issues related to the church and the Christian community in India.
“I am always at your service,” the Prime Minister told the delegation during the meeting. The meeting was described as cordial and constructive.
The delegation, led by Major Archbishop Thattil, included Archbishop Bharanikulangara of Faridabad Archdiocese and other bishops representing the Syro-Malabar Church – the most influential of the three churches in Kerala that owe allegiance to the Pope.
The discussion focused on the welfare of Christian minorities and their role in the social and developmental structure of India.
On this occasion, Kerala BJP leaders including state president and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar and party leader Shon George were also present.
Chandrashekhar later told reporters that the meeting was largely a courtesy call, during which the bishops raised wide-ranging concerns related to micro-minority rights and community development.
“The Prime Minister listened attentively and assured the delegation that the government is ready for talks on all issues,” he said.
He said the BJP’s vision was one of inclusivity and governance beyond religious boundaries.
The state president said, “We do not look at things through a religious lens. Our party serves all the people and the rule of law will always prevail. BJP is and will remain a party of service.”
The bishops also submitted a request to the Prime Minister to invite the Pope to India.
Sources said the delegation appreciated PM Modi’s assurance and looked forward to continued cooperation in areas such as education, social welfare and community engagement.
The meeting comes amid the Church’s growing engagement with the national political leadership, reflecting growing interaction between faith-based institutions and the government on issues of minority welfare, social harmony and participatory development.
–IANS
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