Thiruvananthapuram, April 11 A church-backed Malayalam daily published a strongly worded editorial on Saturday, criticizing "political opportunists" amidst ongoing controversy over proposed amendments to the FCRA.
In its editorial, the 'Deepika Daily' stated that the church's position would remain unchanged despite "threats" and attempts to silence voices concerning issues affecting minorities.
Referring to laws purportedly passed in the name of all, but allegedly targeting minorities, the editorial said that such measures had disproportionately impacted minority communities on several occasions, and warned against efforts to prevent discussion on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
"Even if political opportunists come forward with threats asking us not to speak about the FCRA, our stance will remain the same," the editorial said, adding that political manipulators should not exploit it.
The editorial came a day after BJP leader P C George and his son made remarks against certain Christian bishops.
George criticized certain Catholic bishops, alleging that they were supporting the opposition UDF in the April 9 Assembly polls.
George, who contested from the Christian-dominated Poonjar constituency in Kottayam district, had claimed that a bishop of the Kanjirapally diocese, Mar Jose Pulickal, had directed nuns in convents to vote for the UDF.
His son, Shone George, who contested from the Pala constituency, had also made similar allegations, claiming that despite the BJP supporting the Church on various issues, the party had not received reciprocal backing.
George had said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had assured that the proposed FCRA amendment bill would not create difficulties and would only mandate disclosure of foreign funding details.
"Those bishops who engage in politics will be seen as politicians by us. We will deal with them politically. We will not respect them," George had said.
On concerns raised by sections of the Christian community over the FCRA amendment bill, he said, "Let them keep their concerns to themselves. The bill will be passed."
Christian churches in Kerala have expressed opposition to the proposed amendments to the FCRA.
The bill to amend the FCRA was introduced in the Lok Sabha on March 25, with the government making it clear that individuals engaging in forced religious conversion through foreign funding will not be spared.
Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai had said that the legislation aims to enhance transparency and ensure proper utilisation of funds received from abroad.
