The Hindu, January 14, 2009
Human rights organisations ask Karnataka government to implement High Court order on Christians
Staff Reporter
Bangalore: Several human rights organisations, including the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), have demanded that the Karnataka government implement the High Court’s order of January 7 upholding the rights of Christians in Davangere in the light of the recent church attacks there.
Following a public interest litigation by pastors from three churches in Davangere, the High Court had ordered that the government extend protection to minority communities in the area, reopen churches that were shut down and register cases against the perpetrators of violence.
Interim order
In an interim order of December 24, the High Court had issued directions stating: “The district administration shall provide necessary protection to the life and property of the Christian community...”
Y.J. Rajendra, vice-president of PUCL, told presspersons here on Tuesday that the State government should direct all agencies to follow the court directives and added that the police must uphold the rule of law.
‘Withdraw false cases’
Hasan Mansoor, president of PUCL, said the government should withdraw false cases filed against Christians and churches. Representatives of Karnataka Samatha Sainik Dal, Dalit Sangharsha Samiti, Praja Vimochana Chaluvali, Komusauhardha Vedike and All India Christian Council were present.
|
