News - Mangalore

Belgaum:- Khanapur Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Prahlad Remani's remarks that Christianity would be weeded out in the region has caused communal tension in Belgaum district.

The MLA's remarks have also raised concern over the security of the Christians in the region and have shocked political circles in Belgaum and northern Karnataka, including in the BJP circles.

Remani, in his speech -- recordings of which are available -- has vowed to finish Christianity in the region. What has shocked Christians is that he had made the uncalled-for statement during Independence Day celebrations August 15 here where officials, politicians and police officers were present for a flag-hoisting ceremony in front of the Khanapur Tehshildar's office.

Angry Christians, who held a protest meeting August 16, have lodged a complaint against Remani and have demanded a public apology from the MLA. A copy of the complaint has been handed over to Belgaum Superintendent of Police Sonia Narang.

"There are two things the British left behind while leaving India -- the partition of the nation and the seeds of Christianity that are being spread systematically by the Christians through there institutions," the MLA said.

"People must remain watchful about the spread of these seeds of Christianity and followers of any religion, including Hindus and others, must weed out Christianity," Remani stated.

He also vowed not to stay quiet till these seeds were weeded out. "If these seeds spread, then our nation will be in danger," Remani stated.

He did not stop at that. Speaking to a media person, he said he stood by his statement and his commitment to weeding out Christians would continue by way of a campaign against the community.

"Christians under the guise of social service are luring villagers in Khanapur and are engaged in conversions," he alleged.

Reacting to Remani's statement, Bishop Peter Machado of Belgaum said that he has forgiven Remani for his remarks, "as he does not know what he is saying."

Belgaum Member of Parliament Suresh Angadi, MLA Sanjay Patil and others have disowned Remani's remarks saying these were his own remarks and the party did not stand by it.

Incidentally, Remani's statement has come in the wake of Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa's assurance of protecting the minorities in the State.

Yeddyurappa had called on Bishop Bernard Moras of Bangalore August 10 to wish the latter on his 69^th birthday in Bangalore.

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