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NHRC irked by offending news item against Christians

The National Human Rights Commission on Friday sought an explanation from the Uttar Pradesh government about a news item - Bajrang Dal raises 'oust Christian' cry - appearing in one of the national dailies.

Taking suo motu cognisance, the Commission asked the state chief secretary to file a reply within a week indicating the action, if any, taken on the issue, sources in the NHRC said.

The item quoted a leader of the Bajrang Dal from the Braj region (around Mathura) declaring Christians to be 'bigger enemies than Muslims' and also that 'his organisation was ready to fight wherever Church institutions were active'.

"Maar-peet to kya, hum sab kuchch karne ke liye taiyar hain (we are prepared to use any means to counter them)," the item quoted the leader as saying.

"The Commission observed that the contents of the news item are shocking and hoped that the government of UP has already taken some action on it," the NHRC notice said.

NHRC had already issued notices to the Centre and all state and union territory governments seeking reports within two weeks on measures taken and action plans drawn to tackle the situation in view of several incidents of attacks on Christians and their institutions.

The decision "is based on the need to take a holistic view as well as inspire confidence amongst Christians who appear to be feeling insecure at this time," NHRC had said.

PTI

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