Delhi archbishop condemns alleged vanadalisation of church

Delhi Archbishop Anil Couto today condemned the alleged vandalisation of a church in south Delhi's Vasant Kunj area and expressed concern over the recent spate of such attacks.
"Another act of vandalism and targeted attack on our churches in Delhi is nothing but a reflection of the hate campaign and false propaganda by groups whose sole aim is to break the religious harmony and social peace of this great nation.
"The attack within a week after the celebration of Republic Day reflects a lot on the government and its failure to give protection to minorities and their religious structures," the archbishop said in a statement here.

"As a miniscule minority, we focus on serving the poor and the nation at large. But the growing number of attacks on churches and personnel in different parts of the country is aimed at creating a fear psychosis and tension among different communities," he said.
The archbishop also demanded that the central government act swiftly in the matter and ensure that the law and order situation is properly maintained and religious harmony and social peace is upheld.
"The attacks on churches in Delhi certainly would cause irreparable damage to the country's reputation in the world as India is known for religious tolerance and unity in diversity," he said.

Police said that the incident at St Alphonsa's church in Vasant Kunj took place at around 1 A.M. And a case of theft has been registered in this connection against unidentified persons. They said a number of sacred items were damaged in the incident.
It is the fifth such attack in the city since November and has sparked outrage among the members of the Christian community.