Mangaluru: A protest was organized by Dakshina Kannada Congress Party in front of the Mangaluru City Corporation building, in front of Mahatma Gandhi Statue on Lalbagh Road, on Saturday, March 6. The protest drew a massive gathering of citizens of all faiths, including Christians, Hindus, and Muslims, who stood united in their opposition to MP Pratap Simha’s derogatory remarks about Christians.
Former MLA JR Lobo addressing the protesters said The Christian community wants Mysuru-Kodagu MP Pratap Simha to apologise for his recent remarks about Christians at a Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) meeting in Mysuru. During that meeting, the MP ordered that those who wear the cross around their necks be denied government facilities. I’d like to ask the MP if wearing a cross on or around one’s neck is a crime?”
” MPs should be aware that wearing a cross around one’s neck is a Christian symbol. Only those motivated by hatred and seeking to sow discord will make such insensitive remarks, hurting the feelings of Christians. The Christian community was outraged by the MP’s remarks, so we demand that he either apologises immediately or resigns within 24 hours.” added J R Lobo.
Also speaking during the protest former minister Ramanath Rai said “MP Simha should be aware that he was elected by receiving votes from all communities. And we are all aware of the Christian community’s commitment. Take a look at Father Muller Hospital, which treats patients of all faiths. Consider all of the Christian organisations that have given excellent education to citizens of all faiths and are now in high-ranking positions.”
“Here we have a mentally ill man spewing venom at Christians with his senseless remarks. Government facilities for the Christian community are funded by taxes charged by the citizens, not by funds received by the MP. He is supposed to be aware of these facts.” she added.
Congress leaders Harish Kumar and Mrs Mariamma Thomas also spoke and condemned the remarks made by Pratap Simha.
