- 04 August, 2025
Bangalore, August 4, 2025 — In a candid interview, with Karan Thapar for the wire, Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to adopt a more generous and trusting approach towards India’s Christian community—echoing the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Rising Hostility and Intimidation Against Christians
Speaking to journalist Karan Thapar, Archbishop Machado voiced deep concern over growing hostility, false accusations and what he described as a "pattern of intimidation" against Christians. “Like Vajpayee, Modi must be more generous and trust us,” he said, emphasising the community’s historic contributions to education, healthcare, and service to the marginalised.
BJP Leader’s Alleged Incitement to Violence
Machado also condemned BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar’s alleged public call offering rewards for attacking or killing Christian priests. “How can leaders be allowed to incite violence in a democracy?” he asked. “This isn’t fringe behaviour anymore—it’s moving to the mainstream.”
Christmas Celebration Disruptions and False Accusations of Conversion
Refuting the accusations of conversions during festivals, he revealed that during last Christmas alone, there were 11 reported disruptions across the country. “People barged into our Christmas celebrations—even in Bangalore,” he said. “Before the Church could begin celebrating, markets were already selling Christmas goods. And yet we are blamed.”
“Are we so cheap as to say that bringing gifts to orphans or joy to hospital patients is an attempt to convert them?” he asked.
Christian Institutions and the ‘Conversion Boogie’
Citing a recent intervention in Parliament, Machado recalled Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas’ statement noting that many senior politicians today—including the Finance Minister and the Foreign Minister—graduated from Christian institutions. Yet, none had ever been converted. “Why then,” Machado asked, “is this ‘conversion boogie’ used repeatedly against us?”
Appeal for Recognition and Constitutional Values
He questioned the silence from top leadership. “We are not enemies of the state. We are co-builders of this country.” Despite the increasing polarisation, the Archbishop said the Church remains open to cooperation. “We are ready to help the government,” he said. “We want to build together.”
He reiterated his earlier plea for five assurances from the Prime Minister: protection from false allegations, action against hate speech, safety for Christian institutions, recognition of their contributions, and full respect for religious freedom.
His concluding message was firm: “We believe in the Constitution. We ask not for privilege—but for peace, fairness, and dignity.”
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