Religious dignitaries appeal for calm in Batticaloa

[TamilNet, Wednesday, 31 March 2004, 14:49 GMT]
Religious dignitaries of all faiths in the Batticaloa district Wednesday made an urgent appeal to parties concerned to take immediate steps to promote peaceful environment instead of taking revenge, civil sources said.

Five religious dignitaries in a statement released have expressed fear and sadness over the recent developments that had taken place in the Batticaloa district, sources said

Rt Rev. Dr.Kingsely Swampillai, Bishop of Trincomalee-Batticaloa Diocese, Hindu Priest Karunahara Maheswara Kurukkal, Rev.A.R.Mahendran, Superintendent Minister of Methodist Church in Koddamunai, Batticaloa, Moulavi A.J.M.Ilyas and Vicar Rev.S.Noah Doraisamy of Batticaloa St.Andrews Church have signed the statement.

The statement said," Human life is precious. It is an invaluable gift from God. All should work to preserve the human life. Killing people for difference of opinion cannot be accepted. The healthy development of a society depends on recognizing divergent views. Hence we appeal to all to stop killing people".

" All religions preach humanism, compassion and forgiveness. We are children of God. We should forgive others and love them. We must find unity in diversity and should ensure all human beings living without fear,' the statement further said.

The statement added" Inhuman and undemocratic activities that had taken place have created a fear in the minds of the people that this could lead us into another war. We cannot attain peace or freedom through guns and deaths. Peaceful life is possible by adopting the policy of forgiveness".

"We cannot justify at all the intimidation, threats, murders and attempted murders against candidates, government officials, academicians and innocent people.We pray for those who have suffered due to recent tragic incidents, " said the statement signed by the leading religious dignitaries in the district.