Christians Had No Role In Freedom Struggle: BJP MP

Gopal Shetty is the MP representing Mumbai North IANS

A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP from Mumbai North Gopal Shetty kicked up a controversy by saying that Christians are 'angrez' (British) and did not contribute to the Indian freedom struggle.

Shetty also said that it was only the Hindus and the Muslims who played a role in the freedom struggle.

"Christians were British, hence they didn't participate in India's freedom struggle. India was not freed by Hindus or Muslims, we fought as one for our independence," he can be heard as saying in the video.

Shetty made the controversial remark while addressing a gathering during the Eid-e-Milad organized by the Shia Kabrastan Committee at Malad's Malvani on Sunday. However, videos of his remarks went viral this week.

Maharashtra Congress President Ashok Chavan criticized Shetty's "anti-minority" remarks.

"It reflects despicably communal mindset of the BJP. Freedom struggle is the epitome of sacrifices made by all communities including Christians. Shetty must know that only RSS was in support of the British," he said.

Also, Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam demanded that Shetty must tender "an apology to the entire Christian community of India as he has no knowledge of history or the contribution of the Christians in the independence movement".