We were ready for a dialogue and want this issue to be settled amicably. All we are asking for is to stop forcible conversions. When we are ready for a dialogue, what was the need to issue such a booklet? I don't think it is right for anyone to hurt religious sentiments.

Speaking of religious sentiments, let me refresh your memory. A statue of Jesus Christ had been damaged at the Milagres church in Mangalore. What do you have to say about that?

I am very sad about that and let me assure you that it was not the activists of the Bajrang Dal who were responsible for that incident. We had only protested against the New Life and their conversion camps. Attacking churches was never part of our agenda.

The incident at Milagres was politically-motivated. I am sure that some men from the Opposition parties were part of the protest, only to show our organisation in bad light. Believe me, I was disturbed by that sight too.

Image: Police fire teargas on agitators protesting against the attacks on churches in Mangalore.

Also read: 'Ensure reconversions aren't forced'

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