Karwar, Karnataka: In a remarkable display of unity and solidarity, the Catholic Diocese of Karwar organized a peace rally on September 12, 2023, in support of the people of Manipur, India. The event, which commenced at 9:00 am, saw over 6 thousand participants, including priests, religious, Christian lay people and people of goodwill, marching peacefully from MitrSamaj Karwar to the Deputy Commissioner’s office.
The diocesan Public Relations Officer (PRO), Fr. Salvador Rodrigues, extended a warm welcome to dignitaries and participants and explained the purpose of the day. Mr. Leo Levis explained about the route direction and other cautionary details. The Karwar-Ankola Christian Forum played a pivotal role in organizing the rally, demonstrating the collaborative effort to address the urgent need for peace in Manipur.
Bishop Derek Fernandes delivered a compelling speech during the rally, issuing a heartfelt appeal to the government to intervene promptly and restore peace in Manipur. The Bishop’s impassioned words resonated with the gathered crowd, who listened attentively as he urged for immediate action to bring an end to the turmoil. Few nursing students from Manipur and Mizoram from St. Ignatius Medical Nursing Institute, Honavar shared their pain.
The rally commenced with a small prayer led by Fr. Stany Pinto, setting a reflective tone for the peaceful march. Participants, holding placards and banners advocating for peace, made their way to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. The atmosphere was one of solidarity and determination to contribute to the restoration of harmony in Manipur.
Upon reaching the Deputy Commissioner’s office, Sr. Stanley Alphonso read aloud a meticulously prepared three-page memorandum on behalf of the entire Christian community and all those gathered. The memorandum outlined the concerns and pleas for peace, articulating the collective voice of the participants.Bishop Derek Fernandes then handed over the memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, with the intention of forwarding it to the President of India. This symbolic gesture emphasized the urgency and seriousness of the community’s appeal for intervention and assistance in bringing an end to the unrest in Manipur.
The peace rally organized by the Catholic Diocese of Karwar stands as a testament to the power of unity and collective action in addressing social and political challenges. The hope is that the peaceful demonstration and heartfelt appeal will resonate with authorities, leading to tangible steps towards restoring peace in Manipur.
