18 September 2008:
The St. Peter and Paul Cathedral in Jabalpur was set on fire by unidentified people today evening. The damage was not extensive but the altar and windows etc are burnt irreparably.
The fire was sighted by some bystanders who informed the priest in charge and hence the fire was noticed.
The police and the collector and all the government machinery was present at the venue when we tried to call them up, but it does not make a difference for there have been no arrests till now.
Pray for the Christians in Jabalpur
Meanwhile the center has given a warning to the states of Orissa and Karnataka under the article 355 of the constitution of India.
The center has asked the states to check the violence and the attacks on Churches or action will be taken.
The Article 355 says:
Duty of the Union to protect States against external aggression and internal disturbance
It shall be the duty of the Union to protect every State against external aggression and internal disturbance and to ensure that the government of every State is carried on in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.
At last some words of relief from the center.
