Sidhu: Govt committed to Christians’ rights
reports of alleged threats to Christians over celebrating Christmas in some states of the country, Punjab local bodies minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Thursday stated that anybody eyeing Christians hatefully in Punjab, will have to lose his or her eye. Sidhu was addressing a state-level function organised by the state government to celebrate Christmas at the open ground of Ranjit Avenue here. Thousands of Christians gathered there under the banner of Masih Mahasabha.
After Christian leaders expressed concern over the alleged attacks on the community members in some states, Sidhu said the Punjab government, led by Captain Amarinder Singh, is committed to ensure the safety of the Christians and won’t let anybody affect their religious freedom.
“Everybody has the right to follow or preach any religion. The right to religious freedom is ensured in the Constitution. Your are our brothers. So, protecting your right is the basic responsibility of our government,” he said, paying tributes of Jesus Christ.
Sidhu flayed Pakistan for forced conversion of Sikhs there. “The Sikh community believes in mutual brotherhood. Sri Darbar Sahib has four doors which symbolise that these doors are open for people of all religions, castes and creeds. Pakistan authorities should also protect rights of the Sikhs and stop atrocities against them.
The Union government should also take measures and open all diplomatic channels for safety of the Sikhs”.
Interacting with the media on the sideline of the function, he said CM Captain Amarinder Singh, in-charge of Punjab affairs Asha Kumari and state president Sunil Jakhar would decide names for the posts of mayor, senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor.
Bishop Franco Mulakkal said that Christians are not being allowed to celebrate Christmas in some states. He termed it as violation of their basic rights. However, he expressed satisfaction that the Christians have all freedom in Punjab.
Other present on the occasion included deputy commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha, Father Peter, Pastor Vijay Benedict, Major Vijaypal Singh, Daniel B Dass, Pastor Balwinder John, Mona Pehalwan, Daniel Masih, Jatinder Gaurav, Wilson Gill, Tarsem Masih, Amandeep Gill and eminent members of the christian community.