Halt attacks on Christians, ensure safety to prevent Manipur-like crisis

Kadapa – Andhra Pradesh: Alleging a sharp rise in attacks on the Christian community in Andhra Pradesh, Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association District Honorary President Madagalam Prasad on Tuesday demanded immediate arrests and strict legal action against those behind such incidents, warning that failure to act could push the state towards a Manipur-like situation.

Call for constitutional protection

Addressing a press conference at the RCP office, Prasad said the Indian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to profess, practice, and propagate a religion of their choice. He alleged that forces intolerant of this constitutional right are resorting to violence and intimidation, and urged the government to act firmly against religious attacks.

Anantapur attack cited

He referred to an incident in Korrakudu village of Kudair mandal in Anantapur district, where around 30 alleged religious fanatics attacked a vehicle carrying Christians engaged in gospel preaching. He claimed the attackers used sticks, cricket bats, and stones, assaulted pastors and church elders, injured them, and vandalized the vehicle.

Warning of escalation

Prasad cautioned that such unchecked mob violence would fuel religious fanaticism in the state and demanded the immediate arrest of those involved. He appealed to the government to take preventive steps to ensure protection for Christians and maintain communal harmony.

RCP leaders Venkatesh and Chapala Subbarayudu were present at the press conference.