Christians slam Advani’s conversion debate call

Christian leaders regret LK Advani’s call for a national debate on conversion at a time when one of the country’s smallest communities is under “threat of its very existence," reports Aurangzeb Naqshbandi.

Christian leaders on Thursday regretted BJP leader LK Advani’s call for a national debate on conversion at a time when one of the country’s smallest communities is under “threat of its very existence”.

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“We are ready for a debate on conversion, but let there be a peaceful atmosphere first. Mr Advani should also be ready for a debate on the freedom of religion in the country. The debate should be held in Parliament and all existing statutory forums,” said John Dayal, secretary-general of All India Christian Council.

They also dared Advani to also discuss the activities of the Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad.

NCM ‘divided’ on Bajrang ban

The National Commission for Minorities has demanded stringent action against the Bajrang Dal but stopped short of asking for a ban on the outfit. NCM sources there were differences over the issue of recommending a ban. Some were against it on the ground that communal forces would “gain” from the move. In its report handed to the PMO, it has called for immediate deployment of central paramilitary forces in sensitive areas.