Over 2000 join rally in Chennai, demand CBI investigation over nun probe

A rally in South India protesting the violence on Christians in Orissa, saw the participation of over 2000 people, mostly women.

In addition, the rally demanded a CBI investigation on the rape of a nun in Kandhamal district on August 25, as Hindu mobs went rampage over the assassination of a local VHP leader.

The rally held on Nov. 22 in Chennai, saw film actors, writers, students and nuns protesting the Hindu aggression, notes UCA News.

Archbishop Malayappan Chinnappa of Madras-Mylapore thanked protesters for their support and urged them to be "vigilant against such violence and hatred," which he said could destroy the nation.

Carrying flags and placards, the marchers urged the government to take stern action against those attacking Christians and spreading hate. They demanded a ban on right-wing Hindu groups that have perpetrated violence on the Christian community.

Auxilia Peter, a rally convener, confirmed its main goals were to show solidarity with the victims and demand justice for them. "Women are always the victims of violence, and in Orissa women have also been the victims," the Christian lawyer said.

During the August violence in Orissa, over 60 were killed and thousands forced to flee to forests. Ignoring a claim of responsibility by the Maoists, Hindu fundamentalists accused Christians and indulged in large-scale attacks.