Minority organisations demand ban on VHP

Mumbai, Dec 27 (UNI) Various minority organisations in the city today protested the attack on as many as 24 churches and Christian institutions in Orissa, allegedly by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and demanded President's rule in Orissa as well as a ban on VHP.

Maharashtra Minorities Commission Vice Chairman Dr Abraham Mathai, while speaking to UNI, said, ''We are protesting against the attack on Christian institutions and churches by VHP, wherein two persons were killed and several others injured, and also the inaction of police and the Orissa Government.'' Mr Mathai said ''After BJP's win in Gujarat, the trend of Hindu extremism will increase and will have its affect on the next Lok Sabha polls and the spread should be collectively stopped.'' ''The attack on Christian institutions took place last week and has not stopped,'' Movement for Peace and Justice President Dr Azimuddin said.

The leaders of various minority organisations alleged that the attack on Christians was well planned and there can be many attacks in the future, as well.

Film director Mahesh Bhatt also pledged his support to the cause.

Bhatt alongwith Mathai and others are going to Bhubaneshwar tomorrow to meet Christian leaders and plan the next line of action.

UNI