Reddy promises 'help' to Andhra Christians

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S Rajasekhara Reddy has promised to take serious concern over the financial and administrative steps to redress Christian's grievances in the state.

Meeting with over 600 Christian leaders, last week, the Christian politico responded positively to the issues raised by the Christians.

The event which was organised by Anil World Evangelism, an organisation led by Bro. Anil Kumar, son–in–law of Reddy, invited leaders of all Christian denominations including the Andhra Pradesh Federation of Churches (APFC), a state level organisation of the Bishops and Church leaders.

APFC Executive Secretary Fr. Anthoniraj Thumma apprised the Christians and the Chief Minister of several serious concerns battling the Christians.

Reddy also was positive about rendering the SC status to the Christians, after injustice was done to the Dalit Christians by the government.

He assured the gathering that a separate Minority Welfare Department and Finance Corporation would be formed, to address the issues of Christians in the state.

Furthermore, the devout Reddy assured the Christians that an arrangement to rectify the notification on 'GO 747–which bans propagation of any non–Hindu religion in and around Tirupati' has been made.

The GO, which was issued last year, prohibits propagation of any non–Hindu religions around 20 famous temples in the state.

Also church buildings in the state can now have a sigh of relief, after the Chief Minister assured of charging them on domestic rates rather than the commercial basis.

Land for Christian burial grounds, plot for Church buildings, financial support for pastors engaged in social and spiritual causes, including housing and amenities, were of the other assurances the politico made.