Indian citizens have the right to propagate religion, Cardinal Cleemis Baselios

Every Indian citizen has the right to live in his own motherland and to follow and propagate the religious faith he belongs to, Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis Catholicos has said.

Cardinal Cleemis was delivering the presidential address at the Archbishop Mar Benedict Mar Gregorios commemoration meet held under the auspices of the Pathanamthitta diocese of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church on Monday.

“India is the land of the Rishis of the yore who taught the world the noble message of universal brotherhood and peace. The broadminded outlook of India and its rich contributions to the world at large belonged to those who have deeply felt the Hindu culture and tradition,” said Cardinal Cleemis.

Benedict Mar Gregorios was a real symbol of Indian secularism. Mar Gregorios could whole heartedly accommodate the diverse Indian culture, firmly following the Christian faith and upholding the secular credentials of the country. Both believers and atheists supported him, the Cardinal said.

Revenue Minister Adoor Prakash inaugurated the commemoration meet and Jacob Punnose, former Director General of Police, delivered the keynote address.

K. Sivadasan Nair, MLA; Youhanon Mar Chrysostum, Pathanamthitta Bishop of the Malankara Catholic Church; Mon. Jose Chamakkalayil Corepiscopa, Mon. Joseph Antony, Vicar Generals; Thykkoottathil Zakeer, Fr Ignatius Thangalathil, and Fr Mathew Alummoottil, also spoke.