Adv. Shantaram Naik, M.P. Rajha Sabha
Government of India New Delhi. Honourable M.P. We are very grateful to you for raising concerns and hopes of the Christian community in the august body of the parliamentarians .It was a praise worthy effort to note ,that it was through your own initiative that the issue was brought into focus for the first time ever. What makes it special is that you do not belong to the particular faith and that nobody even requested or persuaded you to highlight the matter. For the Christian and the Catholics Jerusalem is a very significant site It is rightly called the HolyLand. The history of the catholic religion is rooted in this place. It is here that Jesus was born, lived ,carried on his sacred mission and finally redeemed the mankind as their Saviour It is therefore very sacred to us and a visit to this land will help us to recall the precious memories associated with the life of Jesus Many of the holy sites are preserved being meaningful and of religious importance. The faithful would wish to be a part of this journey. Those who can afford the high cost of travel make this visit and return with renewed vigour. The costs for average faithful to undertake this pilgrimage is prohibitive. The Govt. of India is very considerate to certain minority religion and subsidises the pilgrimage every year, making it economical. It is also true that we are a miniscule minority hardly 2% of the population and it is difficult to make our voice felt. The number of M.P.`s representing from our faith are again insignificant. Therefore, with great hope and expectations, that we request your good self, to once again make effective representation to get this facility extended to the Christians as well. The Govt. of India will not find it a great economic burden due to our Small numbers. The Christian community have contributed immensely towards the growth of educational ,health ,and other humanitarian causes of the Indians without the distinction of caste creed and religion, Our community is patriotic and identified with the Nation at all times and under all circumstances. We are certain that since you alone has raised the issue, that you will leave no stone unturned to fulfill our hopes and vigorously pursue to its logical end we have faith in your abilities of persuasion ,clear articulation and determination and remain indebted ,obliged, grateful for your efforts. With regards yours faithfully The list of names, place, phone numbers ,signatures is attached herewith..
