Events
Bellary Christians demand: end to violence, restore peace in Manipur
BALLARI, 7 JULY 2023:

A large number of Christians and well wishers joined, braving the rain showers, demanding immediate end to violence and restoration of peace in Manipur.

A prayer meeting for peace held at Gandhi Bhavan and a peace march through the city was organized by the ecumenical United Christian Forum of Bellary, on July 6.

“It’s shocking and profoundly painful to note that the violence started two months ago is continuing even today in Manipur. It’s reported that over 100 precious human lives are lost, many churches and other places of worship along with houses are burnt and over 50,000 displaced!” said Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary and President of UCF.

At the end of the peace rally, they went to the District Commissioner and presented two memorandums, one for the Hon’ble President of India and the other to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

“We earnestly request that violence be stopped immediately and peace restored in the Manipur. Those who lost their loved ones and properties be compensated and conflicting groups be reconciled,” stated the memorandum.

“Our Motherland India has contributed immensely to non-violence and world peace. May we all strive to live in mutual respect and peace, for the all round progress and prosperity of all Indians!”, observed the memorandum.

The Christians, activists and people of different walks of life of Bellary joined the peace Rally to show their solidarity and concern. They prayed for the restoration of peace in the country, particularly in the state of Manipur.

The Rally began with short prayer service at the Gandhi Bhavan, besides City Corporation Office at Royal Circle, Ballari at 4.30 p.m.

Bishop of Bellary Henry D’ Souza, in his message appealed all those participants to pray for peace in the country, particularly people of Manipur State., where over 100 killed and many churches are burnt , villages and houses of people destroyed. Thousands have been displaced and school going children, elderly, sick, women are worst affected.

Thereafter, participants marched with placards and banners appealing for peace in Manipur from Gandhi Bhavan to the office of District Commissioner, Ballari.

They also appealed that proper and just measures to be taken by the government to the communities , men, women and children suffering with physical violence, loss of property.

The Deputy Commissioner assured all gathered that he would do the needful.
Pastors Rev. John Mark, Secretary UCF, Dr. Prabhakar Rao, UCF Treasurer, Rev. Geoffrey Kumar, Fr. Vincent O., Vicar General, Fr. Ivan Pinto, PRO & Secretary, Commission for Ecumenism, Fr. Alphonse George led the prayer service.
Choir of St. Antony’s Cathedral led by AJ Anthony was present .

Y. Joseph and Fr. Cyril Lasrado added fervor to the prayer service.

Later, the program ended with vote of thanks by Fr. Ivan Pinto, the PRO – UCF.