Mangaluru: The Catholic Sabha of Mangalore Pradesh expressed deep disappointment over the recent remarks made by former Union Minister and Lok Sabha member Janardhana Poojary regarding the Christian community.
Speaking at a press conference, Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh President Paul Rolfe D’Costa said the Christian community of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi has always been peace-loving, strictly practicing its faith in churches and homes, while maintaining respect for all other religions. “Our contribution to society in the fields of education, healthcare, and social service has been significant. We have served through international service bodies like Lions, Rotary, J.C.I., and have organized blood donation camps and other humanitarian efforts for the larger good,” he stated.
D’Costa emphasized that Christians have never spoken against any other faith and will not do so. He recalled that in times of distress—whether during attacks on churches, funerals, weddings, or christenings—the community has stood firm with love, unity, and dignity.
However, he said the recent comment by Janardhana Poojary questioning, “Why did you bury the bodies in your churches?” following an incident in Dakshina Kannada district, has deeply wounded the Christian community. “We have always respected Shri Poojary for his support and participation in our struggles. But such a remark is both unnecessary and hurtful, especially when it comes from someone we hold in high regard,” D’Costa said.
The Catholic Sabha strongly condemned the statement and urged for greater sensitivity while addressing matters of faith and religious practice.