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New Delhi, Nov 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met a delegation of senior bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church who met him in the national capital 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.
The delegation, led by Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, included Archbishop Mar Kuriakose Bharanikulangara of Faridabad Archdiocese and other senior bishops representing the Syro-Malabar Church.
In Kerala, three churches owe their allegiance to the Pope, and the Syro-Malabar Church is the most powerful.
The meeting was described as cordial and constructive, focusing on matters relating to the welfare of Christian minorities and their role in the social and developmental framework of India.
Kerala BJP leaders including state president and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar and party leader Shon George were also present during the meeting.
After the talks, Chandrashekhar told reporters that the meeting was primarily a courtesy call, during which the bishops raised wide-ranging concerns regarding micro-minority rights and community development.
Chandrashekhar said, “The Prime Minister listened to them attentively and assured the delegation that the government is ready for talks on all issues.”
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 delegation of top bishops has requested PM Modi to invite the Pope to India.
Sources said the bishops appreciated the Prime Minister’s assurance and expressed hope for continued cooperation in the areas of education, social welfare and community engagement.
The meeting comes amid the Church’s growing engagement with the national political leadership, reflecting growing dialogue between faith-based institutions and the government on matters of minority welfare, social harmony and participatory development.
–IANS
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