The Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC) has welcomed the order of a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice D.H. Waghela and Justice B.V. Nagarathna, while disposing of a petition by the city unit of the Sri Rama Sene that questioned the Bangalore city police’s inaction on its representation to restrain American evangelist Benny Hinn from participating in a convention here.
Sajan K. George, national president of the GCIC, said here on Monday that the direction of the court proved a point in protecting the rights and beliefs of a particular religion “under the Constitution of our country”. He said that this order went a long way in keeping the tradition of Karnataka, a State known for its religious tolerance. “We sincerely believe the High Court order is a reminder to the miniscule rightist organisations, who are up to create communal disturbance, to respect the constitutional obligation of regarding others’ beliefs and faiths.”
The order also directed the administration to provide adequate protection at the convention.
“As there is a change taking place in the entire country, we feel certain organisations should not exploit Mr. Hinn’s programme to gain sympathy to garner votes. We are worried these organisations rake up their stereotype issue of forced conversion of Hindus to Christianity without using any logic or sense.”
Dr. George added, “We foresee these organisations [who are] looking to gain in the general elections might create problems and Mr. Hinn’s function might become an issue for them to create communal disturbance.”
He, however, said they were surprised at protests staged by the Karnataka Komu Souharda Vedike (Karnataka Communal Harmony Forum) and the Moudyachara Thade Okkoota (Anti-superstition Forum) against Mr. Hinn’s visit.
