Indian Christian Journalists Collective holds Semi-Christmas celebrations

The Indian Christian Journalists Collective organised Semi-Christmas celebrations in Hyderabad on Saturday. Government Advisor Shabbir Ali said the Congress government is focusing on Christian welfare, while speakers raised concerns over minority rights and attacks across the country.

Hyderabad: The Indian Christian Journalists Collective organised the Semi-Christmas Celebrations at the CSI Institute of Technology auditorium here on Saturday.

Speaking at the celebrations, Shabbir Ali, Government Advisor for SC, ST, OBC and Minority Affairs, said the Congress government was making significant efforts for the welfare of Christian minorities. He said priority would be given to independent churches in rural areas that lack basic facilities and mentioned that the government is providing Rs. 2,000 financial assistance to pastors.

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Christian Minority Corporation Chairman Deepak John expressed concern over increasing attacks on minorities and violations of constitutional rights across the country. Jukkal MLA T Lakshmikant Rao appreciated the collective effort of Christian journalists in celebrating Christmas together.

Pastors Purushotham and Sushil Victor delivered the Christmas message, followed by cake cutting and exchange of greetings. The attendees included Telangana Minority Commission Vice Chairman Shankar Luke, former Chief Secretary Minnie Mathew, former DGPs Swaranjit Sen and Baburao, former Additional DGP D T Naik, Minorities Finance Corporation MD Sabitha, Prof. K Stevenson, former head, department of Mass Communication and Journalism, Osmania University, and ICJC Chairman and senior journalists John Shashidhar, Sushil Rao, Jonah Ramarao, Joshua Shyamson and Joel Kumar.