Udupi: It is sad to note that the political parties have neglected the Christian community as no tickets have been given to any Christian candidate. We strongly condemn this, said Harry D’Souza, President, Karnataka Christian Social Welfare Association, Bengaluru.
Speaking at a press meet held at the Udupi Press Club on Thursday, April 4, Hary D’Souza said that though there are 35 lakh Christians in the state who have made contributions, they have not been considered by any political party. “At least an opportunity to contest in Mangaluru, Karwar, Bengaluru or Bidar should have been considered,” he said.
The Congress, JDS and BJP parties in the state have neglected the Christians. Now, no one should believe that Christians will blindly vote for the Congress party. They, along with the JDS have assured of the formation of a board for Christians and it was announced in the budget. But so far, no action has been taken in this regard, he said.
He then said that since Christians were not given an opportunity to contest in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, they must be considered for the Rajya Sabha, Legislative Council and Chairmanship of various boards in the near future, so that this injustice can be corrected.
Meanwhile, the association has urged the Chief Election Commissioner to exempt Christian government employees from election duty on April 18 on account of it being Maundy Thursday. The Election Commissioner of India and State Chief Election Commissioner have considered the appeal of the Christian Community for a change of venue etc. He then thanks the authorities for taking appropriate action in this regard by issuing directions vide letter dated 18/3/2019 to all District Collectors and District Officer in the state, despite their busy schedule.
Mary D’Souza Designate President of Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh, Maxim D’Souza Secretary CSUP and Valerian Fernandes Past president of Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh were present.
