Nexus between Christian missionaries, Naxals: VHP

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad on Tuesday alleged a strong nexus between Christian missionaries and Naxals. The VHP sought an immediate ban on the foreign funding to these organisations as they were a 'massive threat' to the country's security.

A VHP delegation called on President Pratibha Patil in New Delhi today and gave a detailed account of the situation in Orissa's Kandhamal district, which recently witnessed communal violence.

The VHP leaders presented a memorandum to the President, seeking an immediate ban on the conversion activities of Christian missionaries and foreign funds to these organisations.

They also demanded a thorough scrutiny of the accounts of these Christian missionaries and urged the President to ensure that no foreigner is allowed to practice religious conversion in the country.

''The President gave a patient hearing and assured us that she will look into the matter,'' said VHP national secretary Dr Surendra Kumar Jain.

He alleged that the Christian missionaries had a strong nexus with Naxals across the country.

''In the North East, these missionaries have links with Pakistan's Inter Services Intelligence and other terror outfits. They are a serious threat to the country's security,'' Dr Jain alleged.