Muslim and Christian leaders in Karnataka have decided to work together to address concerns affecting minority communities and defend their constitutional rights.
The decision was taken during a meeting between office bearers of the Karnataka Region Muslim Okkuta (KRMO) and Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru, along with other Christian leaders, at the Archbishop’s House in Bengaluru on Friday.
Leaders Discuss Minority Concerns
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the two communities and creating a common platform to respond to issues affecting minorities across Karnataka.
The participants expressed concern over what they described as the alleged misuse of the state’s Anti Conversion Bill. They alleged that members of minority communities were being harassed, assaulted and falsely implicated by fringe groups in the name of the legislation.
The leaders also raised concerns over what they described as a growing pattern of hate speech and targeted vilification of minority communities.
They said the situation required greater unity among minority communities and collective efforts to protect the rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Common Forum Planned
As an immediate step, the leaders decided to establish a common forum to take up issues concerning minority communities in Karnataka.
They also resolved to seek an early meeting with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and approach MLAs and MPs from their respective minority communities to raise these concerns in legislative forums.
Four Coordinators Nominated
Four coordinators were nominated to oversee the proposed initiatives.
Tanveer Ahmed and Suhel Ahmed will represent the Karnataka Region Muslim Okkuta, while Fr. Vinay Kumar and Asst. Bishop Sunil V. Jacob will represent the Christian community.
The meeting ended with a commitment to strengthen Muslim Christian cooperation and work together on issues related to peace, justice and the protection of constitutional rights.
