Udupi: The Brahmavar Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church strongly condemns MP Shobha Karandlaje’s statement about vaccination as absolutely false and malicious, with the intent to malign the community.
The press release issued on Thursday, May 20 by Fr Lawrence D’Souza, Diocesan Council Member, Diocese of Brahmavar, the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church stated, “Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, the Community, along with all other Christian Churches and denominations, has been on a war footing, adhering to all government regulations, spreading knowledge, enforcing pandemic control measures, and offering assistance to the needy and sick. Bishops, priests, and other community leaders have convened meetings to discuss the regulations. The Bishops, Priests, and other heads of the community have called meetings on regular basis, with various stakeholders, to extend support and to address the pandemic in all possible ways.
During the lockdowns, the churches remained entirely closed to the public and only functioned after adhering to all Covid protocols, ensuring the protection and well-being of all devotees and tourists while also monitoring the spread of Covid.
COVID victims’ funerals were conducted by a volunteer team who followed all procedures and ensured their safety.
The community has also been instrumental in providing food kits and responding to non-medical emergencies of the poor & needy, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion since last year’s lockdown.
The contribution of Christian clergy, religious, medical professionals, and volunteers to the fight against the pandemic has been significant, and many have died while serving on the front lines. The Christian community’s mission has been crucial, and it cannot be overlooked or exposed to such degrading remarks.
MP Shobha Karandlaje’s dubious statements are discouraging and hurtful in containing the pandemic. Instead, MP Shobha Karandlaje should take measures to resolve the vaccine shortage and provide much-needed medical supplies and facilities in the Udupi – Chickmangalur area as soon as possible.
