'Congress Will Protect Constitutional Rights Of Minorities,' Says MPCC Chief

Mumbai: A group of Christian leaders convened with Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshavardhan Sakpal on Thursday to express apprehensions regarding Maharashtra's recent legislation on religious freedom, the implementation of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) rules, interfaith marriages, and the safeguarding of minority rights.

Sakpal pledged the Congress party's dedication to defending the rights of minority communities. The gathering was organized by MPCC general secretary Jojo Thomas. The attendees affirmed their support for legal action against coercive or deceitful religious conversions, but cautioned that the new law should not be abused to persecute innocent individuals or entities.

Thomas highlighted the necessity of safeguarding constitutional rights, citing Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom to choose, practice, and spread one's religion. Sakpal reiterated that constitutional rights must be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their faith, and emphasized the party's commitment to upholding secularism and promoting religious harmony in Maharashtra.