Christians are safe under Modi govt: Barla after meeting Church leader

Christians are "safe" in all over the country after Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India, Union minister of state for minority affairs John Barla on Tuesday said after meeting Syro-Malabar Church major archbishop Mar George Alencherry in Kochi.

"The meeting with the Bishop was fruitful. There are many things to do for the betterment of the Christian people. I know that, after 2014, Christian people are safe in Modi Government in Kerala and all over India. After 2014, not any disturbance in any area," ANI quoted Barla as saying.

He then claimed that Christians are not aware of many central government schemes. "We have to work together. There are many things to do. They (Christians) are not aware of many central government schemes," Barla added.

Barla is in Kerala on a three-day visit to meet Christian leaders.

He termed the meeting with the Bishop very fruitful. The meeting was a part of the BJP-led Central government's outreach programme in the state. Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice president AN Radhakrishnan accompanied MoS John Barla.

He had also visited the St Euphrasia Shrine and Museum and spent some time in prayer for the people of our nation. "It was a joy to interact with the fathers and sisters of the church, who shared their wisdom and insights with me. Such a meaningful and inspiring experience!" he tweeted. He visited the historic ST Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum on Monday.

"Visited the historic St. Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum today and had an amazing breakfast with the priest of the church! Got to hear their grievances and proposals for new projects. Even interacted with some media persons," Barla tweeted on Monday.

Barla interacted with Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi later on Monday. "Had a great opportunity to interact with fathers, brothers, & Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi, Kerala. It was a pleasure to share with them the latest initiatives and schemes of the central government," he tweeted.

This visit comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Sacred Heart Cathedral Church on the occasion of Easter, earlier this month.

The Prime Minister planted a tree on the premises. After the visit, he tweeted, "Today, on the very special occasion of Easter, I had the opportunity to visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Delhi. I also met spiritual leaders from the Christian community."

He lit a candle before the statue of Jesus Christ in the cathedral.

"Happy Easter! May this special occasion deepen the spirit of harmony in our society. May it inspire people to serve society and help empower the downtrodden. We remember the pious thoughts of Lord Christ on this day," the Prime Minister tweeted earlier in the day.

With inputs from agencies