The Archbishop of Bangalore Bernard Moras on Sunday called upon leaders of various religions to make united efforts against the massacre of innocent people in Iraq, Nigeria and Syria by the Islamic State (IS).
He addressed the gathering organised by the Archdiocese of Bangalore at St Joseph’s Indian High School grounds on Grant Road near Kanteerava Stadium, after a mass prayer was conducted in the memory of those killed by the IS and those who were washed away in the recent Kashmir floods.
Earlier, scores of Christians had taken part in a march from St Patrick Church on Brigade Road to the St Joseph’s Indian High School grounds.
“Over 1.75 lakh Christians have been massacred in Iraq, Nigeria and Syria by the IS. The inhuman, brutal and uncivilised acts of massacre and violence should come to an end. Terrorists have targeted innocent citizens of all religions, not just the Christians. The exploitation of and atrocities against innocent human beings seem to be endless, while the number of sexual assaults on women is on the rise. It is a sin to witness such acts and keep silent. Hence, leaders of all religions should come together and raise their voices against such instances,” he said.
Shanthaveera Swamiji of Kolad Mutt termed the killing of innocent citizens in Iraq acts of devils and witches. “The killing of Muslims by Muslims amounts to cheating Allah, the Almighty. No religion in the world ever propagated violence. Everybody should realise this principle and end the violence,” he said.
Former deputy chief minister R Ashoka said that while all other nations in the world focused on development and welfare of human societies, countries like Pakistan, Iran, Syria were breeding terrorists. The atrocities on the Christians should be condemned, he added.
“The terrorists have not spared the Indian soldiers who were carrying out rescue operation of thousands of people stranded in floods in Jammu and Kashmir. Hence, every Indian should raise voice against such acts,” he said. Shanthinagar MLA N A Haris was present on the occasion.