Catholics Boycotted For Ignoring Hindu Practice

KARWAR, Sept. 01, 2010, 14:00 Hrs (UCAN):

The refusal of Catholics to follow Hindu practices in a village in Karnataka state has resulted in sanctions against them, says a bishop.

Following a cholera outbreak recently, Hindus in Magalawada village decided to appease a deity by not working on Tuesdays and Fridays, said Bishop Derek Fernandes of Karwar.

Local media reported that Christians refused to follow this practice after a parish priest told them not to do so.

The Hindu villagers are now boycotting Catholic-run businesses and newspaper distribution to Catholic homes has been stopped, said the bishop.

Hindus have stopped repairing Catholics’ agricultural equipment and some people have warned against engaging Christians in work.

Hindu students have also been banned from attending Catholic-run schools, said Bishop Fernandes.

Hindus villagers should understand that Christians have their own way of worshipping and nobody can force a practice on them, he said.

The social sanctions are “a human rights violation against the Catholics,” the bishop added.

He said he has urged the district administration to ensure that social rights of Christians are upheld and that the issue is settled amicably.